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If you’re not familiar with Newcastle and get the opportunity to visit, the best place to start is to head down the Quayside. This vibrant area along the River Tyne, which flanks both Newcastle and Gateshead, has undergone a transformation in recent years, evolving from an industrial dockside to a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
It’s a great place to do some sightseeing and visit one of the buzzy art galleries or some of its trendy bars and clubs. And even if you don’t have time for any of that, it’s still worth a quick visit – just to enjoy the scenic majesty of its many bridges.
And that’s not all. This year, you’ll also be able to enjoy a fabulous 90-metre mural created by artist Andy Welland.
From bus to buzz
A former bus lane transformed into a linear work of art, curated by the local Unit44 Gallery, the piece is believed to be the largest piece of temporary pavement art in the UK.
Each year, local business initiative NE1 commissions a new artist to transform the space, adding extra vibrancy to the Quayside and something new to complement the area’s iconic scenery. In previous years, the artists MUL and Oflines have had the honour.
This year, it went to Andy, an artist and designer based in Sheffield. He’s known for his bright and playful collage works that express positive energy, connection, and form.
Andy has an extensive background working with luxury brands and curated retailers. His work is always graphic in nature but never constrained to one medium. It has appeared in brightly abstract paintings, sculptures, and product packaging for clients such as Selfridges, Liberty London, Lush, and Anthropologie.
“Painting this mural on Newcastle’s Quayside has been an extraordinary journey, deeply rooted in my personal connection to the area and the wider city,” says Andy. “Loose Ends 300 is a graphic collage inspired by the energy of the River Tyne, the forms of iconic bridges, and the collective energy of the people, all coming together as a collage of positive energy, independent spirit and zeal.”
Celebrating solidarity
He explains that the concept behind the mural is a celebration of Northern solidarity. “It’s a testament to how we turn challenges into opportunities, transforming coal dust into diamonds,” says Andy. “It is about encouraging kids to dream big, forge their own paths and build upon culture together.”
In this light, the choice of the location makes perfect sense. “The Quayside is a space that embodies continuous transformation and is a testament to the positive, creative energy that also thrives within Newcastle’s streets,” explains Andy. “It is an honour to contribute to such an iconic space. The mural invites viewers to explore and interpret the abstract collage in their own personal way, see the beauty in each element, and feel the unity and strength that defines Newcastle.
“I hope this mural inspires and sparks the imagination in those who see it, showing that our dreams are as big and vibrant as we make them.”
Art for everyone
His collaborators couldn’t be more pleased. “The playful and vibrant tone of Andy’s work encourages interaction,” enthuses Danny Hughes at Unit 44. We are firm believers that art is for everyone, and that starts with highly accessible aesthetics. We take it as a real win when we see children interacting and playing with our installations while allowing people from all walks of life to comment on the creation.”
“Andy’s mural is a great addition to this iconic area,” adds Ben Whitfield, director of communications at NE1. “It is a show-stopping masterpiece that decorates the pavement with a riot of colour and shapes. It gives a novel backdrop for capturing summer photos and adds a new dimension to one of the city’s most iconic vistas.”
The pavement art joins together with a Play Pavilion, a range of colourful seating, and a variety of activities in NE1’s Summer in the City programme to help families enjoy the city and its Quayside during the school holidays.
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