The Elevation community arts foundation was created when a group of volunteers wanted to mark the 800th anniversary of North Shields with the production of some public art. “We all love our town, but some of the buildings are a bit drab and in need of a lick of colour”, explains former councillor Matt Wilson, who initiated the project. Urban artist Prefab77 kickstarted the concept with the beautiful mural entitled ‘The Siren’ on the end of the former Ye Olde Hundred pub on Church Way. Inspired by this transformation, with perseverance the small charity managed to secure funding from various sources, including North Tyneside Council, businesses, private donors and the proceeds from selling donated artworks.
They then started to scour the town for suitable locations for more large-scale murals: gable ends, old factories, residential houses. Over an 18-month period they identified 35 walls and approached the proprietors for permission to use them. In the end, eight walls have been chosen to be decorated by individual artists over a five-week period, starting in July and finishing in the first week of August.
The artists were chosen by a panel made up of various members of the community and were given the brief of capturing the spirit of North Shields. Each design will reflect the individual style of the artist and will be specific to its location, portraying aspects of the town to do with history, culture and nature. “It will be very affirming for North Shields”, claims Matt.
The murals could last at least five years, but the intention is to create a much longer legacy. Matt and the Elevation team want to inspire others to become involved in the community, for example schools could become engaged in projects relating to the unique artworks. Each mural will have a QR code for residents to submit their opinions, impressions and feedback.
The exact locations of the murals are yet to be officially confirmed, but there is sure to be much excitement when work gets underway. Watch this space for further information and upcoming interviews with each of the chosen artists. In the meantime, keep an eye out for possible Shields buildings that would make a good blank canvas – you may be able to guess where they will be!
More information: https://elevationcio.com/
