Matt Wilson from Elevation gives I Love North Shields an exclusive update on the mural festival transforming the town as part of the North Shields 800 celebrations.
A Street Art Celebration of 800 Years of North Shields
In summer 2025, eight large-scale murals will transform blank walls across North Shields into works of art. As part of the North Shields 800 celebrations, this ambitious project celebrates the town’s colourful history, character, and community spirit.
Led by Elevation, a local arts charity powered by volunteers and residents, the mural festival is one of the most exciting creative events ever to hit the town.
“This isn’t just about painting walls. It’s about celebrating who we are — and where we’re going.”
Matt WIlson, Chair of Elevation
🎬 Watch the Video
Get the full story in our latest video, featuring Elevation’s Matt Wilson:
🎨 Meet the Artists Transforming the Town
These talented muralists were selected from a competitive pool of UK and European artists and will paint live across July and August:
Anthony Downie
Instagram: @ad.paintingz
Website: www.adillustration.co.uk
KMG
Instagram: @kmgyeah
Website: www.kmgyeah.com
Marcus Reed
Instagram: @marcus_reed_art
Website: www.marcusreed.com
MarkOne87
Instagram: @mark_one87
Website: www.mark-one87.co.uk
Mul
Instagram: @mul_draws
Website: www.mul-draws.com
Nina Valkhoff
Instagram: @ninapelirroja
Website: www.ninavalkhoff.com
Prefab77
Instagram: @prefab77_
Website: www.prefab77.co.uk
Ricky Also
Instagram: @rickyalso
Website: paintshopstudio.com
🎉 A Community-Led Celebration
This mural festival is made possible through funding from:
- North East Combined Authority via North Shields 800
- Stonebanks Investments
- Karbon Homes
- Adderstone Living
- RW Mann Trust
- Plus generous support from local residents and art buyers
The project reflects Elevation’s mission to bring new energy to public spaces and foster pride through creative transformation.
“Although the mural will be on my house, it’s for everyone.”
Kirsty Ferguson, North Shields resident
📍 What’s Next?
🗓 The mural painting takes place throughout July and August 2025
📸 Follow us for live updates, artist interviews, and mural locations
🗺️ A North Shields Mural Trail will launch later this year!
🤝 Media Collab
- I Love North Shields
- SIRA Studio — video production
📲 Follow the Journey
Stay tuned for mural reveals, interviews, and behind-the-scenes coverage.
Tag your photos with #NorthShields800 and #ILoveNorthShields
