An iconic piece of public art. A hidden part of our town’s story. And a question that has sparked hundreds of conversations across North Shields.
When I Love North Shields recently shared a photograph of the famous Fishscape mosaic overlooking the river, we asked a simple question:
“Should North Shields’ famous Fishscape be seen again?”
The response was overwhelming.
Hundreds of people engaged with the post, sharing memories, opinions and ideas about the future of one of North Shields’ most recognisable public artworks.
But for many residents, the conversation also raised another question:
How many people even know it’s there?
A Landmark Hidden by Time
For those who remember it in its heyday, the Fishscape was once one of the first things people saw when arriving in North Shields by sea.
Positioned on the hillside overlooking the river, the large mosaic artwork celebrated the town’s deep connection to fishing, maritime heritage and the Tyne.
Visible from ships entering the port, it became a landmark in its own right.
Today, much of the artwork is obscured by vegetation, self-seeded trees and overgrowth.
While parts of the mosaic can still be seen, many residents feel it no longer has the visual impact it once did.
Why Was It Created?
The Fishscape was created as a community-led public art project celebrating North Shields’ fishing heritage.
The artwork was designed to reflect the town’s historic relationship with the sea, fishing industry and riverside identity.
For decades, North Shields was one of the country’s most important fishing ports. Generations of local families worked in the industry, and the Fishscape became a visual reminder of that heritage.
The mosaic also formed part of wider efforts to improve and celebrate public spaces around the Fish Quay and riverside.
For many residents, it represents much more than an artwork.
It represents North Shields itself.
What The Community Is Saying
The overwhelming majority of comments called for the Fishscape to be restored, maintained or made more visible again.
Dave said:
“The same question was brought up last year and I for one said yes it should be restored. I was willing to help keep it litter free. It must have taken quite a while to create and would have looked very impressive from ships coming into port.”
Phil added:
“It should be looked after by North Tyneside Council as part of an annual schedule for maintenance of the streetscape and river bank.”
Jessica said:
“It’s such a shame something as lovely as this is mostly hidden by trees and overgrowth. Please cut back the trees so it can be seen again.”
Janice commented:
“What is the point of having artwork if it is never maintained? A quick trim is often all that is needed.”
Tessa wrote:
“I didn’t even know it was there. What a fantastic piece of art.”
Ray said:
“Get it on show. North Shields is proud of its heritage.”
Christine added:
“A lovely piece of art. Spoilt now as it’s not been maintained.”
Debi commented:
“I used to love walking around there and it would be a great visual from cruise ships.”
Not Everyone Agrees
While most comments supported restoration, some residents raised important environmental considerations.
Mike commented:
“Do we really have to tidy up everywhere because that usually means destroying the environment? Restoration does not have to mean destruction of natural habitat.”
This highlights an important discussion.
Can the Fishscape be made visible again while also protecting biodiversity, wildlife habitats and mature planting?
Many residents suggested that careful management rather than wholesale clearance could provide a solution.
Gav suggested:
“No one is asking to clear them, but pollarding would be the ideal solution.”
More Than Just A Mosaic
What became clear from the discussion is that people aren’t simply talking about an artwork.
They’re talking about:
- Pride in North Shields
- Protecting local heritage
- Maintaining public spaces
- Balancing nature and culture
- How the town presents itself to visitors
- What future generations will inherit
Several residents pointed out that North Shields is currently pursuing greater recognition for its culture, creativity and heritage.
For many, restoring visibility to the Fishscape feels like a relatively simple way of celebrating a unique part of the town’s identity.
Could The Community Help?
One interesting theme emerging from the comments is the willingness of residents to get involved.
Several people expressed interest in helping maintain the area, organise clean-ups or support restoration efforts.
Community-led projects have already transformed spaces across North Shields in recent years, from litter-picking initiatives to public art projects and heritage campaigns.
Could the Fishscape become another example of local people working together to preserve something special?
We Want To Hear From You
The conversation is far from over.
Do you think the Fishscape should be:
- Restored?
- Made more visible?
- Left exactly as it is?
- Managed in a way that balances heritage and nature?
- Reimagined for a new generation?
Perhaps you remember helping create it.
Maybe you have photographs from when it was first unveiled.
Or perhaps you’ve only just discovered it exists.
Whatever your view, we’d love to hear from you.
Leave a comment below, email us at hello@ilovenorthshields.com, or join the discussion on our Facebook page.
Because sometimes the most important stories are hiding in plain sight.
What do you think should happen to the Fishscape? ❤️
Have an old photograph of the Fishscape?
We’re particularly interested in seeing historic photographs, newspaper cuttings, memories and stories connected to the artwork.
If you have anything you’d like to share, please get in touch. We may feature them in a future I Love North Shields story exploring the full history of this much-loved landmark.
