‘An amazing celebration of human togetherness, community spirit and creativity. Looking forward to the next one already. Huge well done to all involved’
Spennymoor Mural Festival
2023 & 2024
7 Different artists painted across 7 days, including 2 first time mural artists. 36 people attended open spray paint workshops
2023: The Region’s First Mural Festival
An exhibition in The Bob Abley Gallery attracted over 60 people to an event, including 5 people who had never been in an art gallery before.
We started with a series of workshops, consultations and meetings to find out what was missing.
We wanted to create something based on the needs of the local artists and community members.
Workshops, consultations and meetings with the community lead to huge support from local people. We handed out over 40 blank sketch books to the public.
With 28 artists responding to our call out, and filling out a survey about what they need help with in their practice, we found there was a huge need for a network.
Artists are being asked to work for free and struggling to find work paid at a living wage as an artist.
The festival was set up to provide support and mentorship to artists, and be a voice for fair pay.
What did people think?
-
'Great event for the north east and just on my door step, a welcoming vibe from everyone and awesome art to enjoy. Hopefully see more in the very near future!'
-
'Amazing from start to finish and the town definitely needs more. Ophelia, Matilda & Hector have loved coming down every day and then come home and spent hours on their own creations instead of asking to play Roblox'
-
'Hats off to all of you for a great start to something I can see will grow and benefit the artist and communities alike.'
