From large scale murals to artists working with tiles, stencils, LEGO and drilling into concrete, Nuart Aberdeen is back on a monumental scale this Easter.
The walls and streets of the city will be the canvas for a superstar line up of international street artists. Axel Void, Ememem, Ben Eine, Evol, Helen Bur, Hush, Julio Anaya Cabanding, Smug, Vhils, Jan Vormann, Hama Woods, Dotmasters and Anders Gjennestad aka Strøk, will all make their unique mark on the city during the festival, which takes place from 18 – 21 April.
The festival kicks off with an exclusive ‘In Conversation’ interview at The Belmont Filmhouse led by the BBC’s Fiona Stalker with playwright, designer and celebrated Scottish artist John Byrne. Described by Billy Connolly as, ‘Scotland’s favourite artist’ John was the first artist to paint a gable end in Glasgow back in the 1970s and the audience is set to get a unique insight into his life as an artist. Over the festival weekend, an engaging programme of film screenings, artist talks, lectures and debates takes place in the Belmont for all to enjoy.
The city will also host a UK first, as the world of street art is opened to seniors. A workshop led by internationally renowned Portuguese curator and architect, Lara Seixo Rodrigues, will be held over two days culminating when the rebellious senior participants are let loose on a wall to create their unique piece of art.Reinforcing the power of art for all ages, childhood memories will also be ignited as artist Jan Vormann makes a playful mark on the city, brick by brick with LEGO.
This year’s theme explores the importance of storytelling and its relationship to the city. Whether this is a city full of towering works of art gifted by visitors or laughing pensioners spray-painting their way to infamy, the festival and its art is open to each individual to interpret.
As well as looking up at walls, visitors to Nuart Aberdeen will need to look down, as colourful ‘puddles’ appear courtesy of Ememem, who repairs potholes and cracks on pavements with art.
The Green will act as the heart of the festival with the public launch taking place at 1pm on Saturday 20 April and free guided walking tours departing from here. Inspired Nights on the Green will serve up the best local street food, drink, music, entertainment and art all weekend starting at 4pm on Friday 19 April.
Nuart Aberdeen is brought to the city by Aberdeen Inspired and Aberdeen City Council. The festival is not to be missed. The street art can be enjoyed all year round on free walking tours which run until October.
For more information visit
nuartaberdeen.co.uk.