Art

Explore North Shields through art, culture and community. Discover the Elevation NS800 mural trail and landmark public artworks across North Shields — a self-guided walking...

The new sculpture on the corner of Stephenson Street and Tynemouth Road in North Shields had people talking right from the moment its white circular...

his in-depth feature traces the story of Robert “Mouseman” Thompson — the Yorkshire craftsman famous for his carved mice — and uncovers his unexpected footprint in North Shields, from Mouseman furniture in St Columba’s church to the 1958 Wooden Dolly in Northumberland Square.

Anthony Downie

Seven striking public art panels created for North Shields’ 800th anniversary are now seeking a permanent home. North Shields: 800 Years in the Making, the large-scale works by local artist Conrad Milne reimagine the town’s story through layered imagery, poetry and archive. Previously displayed at North Shields Central Library, organisers are calling on venues to keep this landmark cultural commission visible for generations to come — preserving a powerful visual celebration of the town’s heritage.

Tynemouth’s own J.D. Linkleter — or Jimmy, as he was known — lived a life shaped by creativity, craft, and quiet contribution. From football programmes and wartime magazines to local landscapes gifted to friends, his art touched many corners of life. A sign-writer, illustrator, and RAF sergeant, his story reveals a fascinating blend of talent and service, waiting to be rediscovered.

Discover Prefab77’s mural, Net Worth, on the gable end of Lin’s Seafoods at the heart of North Shields Fish Quay. Created for the Elevation Mural Festival, it portrays a steely-eyed fisherman in traditional gansey flanked by two fishing boats. This mural boldly honours the region’s maritime labour and heritage. Part of our complete guide to the Elevation Wall Murals. Meet the artists and explore the stories behind this creative town-wide project.

North Shields has marked a powerful moment in its 800-year history with the unveiling of a new bronze statue honouring Mary Ann Macham — an enslaved woman who escaped a plantation in Virginia, survived a dangerous transatlantic journey, and began a new life of freedom in this town on Christmas Day, 1831.

Amid life’s unexpected changes, local artist Raymond Usher discovered a new creative passion that transformed everyday moments into vibrant expressions. What began as a simple hobby blossomed into a collection of colourful works capturing a deep sense of place and memory. Balancing family and work, Raymond’s art quietly resonates within the community, finding its way into local spaces and inspiring others. His journey shows how creativity can flourish unexpectedly, bringing connection and meaning in surprising ways.

Have you ever imagined what your local pub, or indeed your house, would look like as a piece of art? Streetdoodler, aka Sarah Sutherland,...