Southend City Jam: Artists from across world set to arrive

Southend City Jam, now in its fourth year, will begin this Friday and see some of the street art world’s most talented figures transform more than 100 walls across the city.

Talent – Artists from across the world are set to arrive in Southend (Image: Southend Council) Ahead of the event, Matt Dent, Labour councillor for business, culture, music and tourism, has shared his excitement for the festival and encouraged residents to get involved.

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The festival will run from 10am to 5pm from Friday to Sunday and feature a range of activities, exhibitions and live mural paintings.

Excitement – Matt Dent has spoken about the upcoming return of City Jam (Image: Southend Council) Mr Dent said: “Now in its fourth year, the festival will welcome more than 200 artists from across the UK and around the world, transforming over 100 walls in our city centre and seafront.

“This year we’ve added even more, such as free workshops from the Focal Point Gallery, which you can book through their website, a community wall outside The Forum where anyone can have a go at street art, and a new exhibition space and merchandise shop in the Royals Shopping Centre.”

Creativity – Residents can watch artists create an array of murals (Image: Southend Council) Last year’s festival saw some of the world’s most talented and respected street artists flock to the city and produce a variety of permanent and temporary installations on the city’s walls and specially designed exhibition cubes.

“With preparations well underway, some of your favourite murals from previous City Jam events may already have been covered up, but don’t worry, iconic new artwork will be coming soon,” said Mr Dent.

“City Jam grows bigger and bolder every year and we’re proud to bring you this free, world class celebration of street art right here in Southend, which really builds on our sense of civic pride.

Artists – City Jam is now in its fourth year (Image: Southend Council) “I also encourage you to check the festival map at SouthendCityJam.co.uk, it shows what’s happening where and also highlights the permanent murals dotted around the city.”

In addition to the street art on display as part of City Jam, residents will be able to enjoy a range of food and drinks from south Essex businesses.