At a Glance
- Tasks: Create a large-scale mural that captures the theme of Motion in the Forth Street Tunnel.
- Company: Join an exciting public art project in Newcastle city centre.
- Benefits: Receive a £34,000 commission fee and support for your artwork.
- Other info: Opportunity to engage with local history and enhance urban spaces.
- Why this job: Make your mark on a vibrant community space and showcase your talent.
- Qualifications: Visual artists with experience in public art and working at height certification.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 34000 £ per year.
This is an open call for a visual artist to create a large scale mural for the Forth Street Tunnel. The commission is part of the Central Gateway Connectivity project, which is improving routes around Newcastle Central Station, including Orchard Street Tunnel, Forth Street Tunnel and Forth Street. The theme for this commission is Motion. Artists are invited to respond to the movement, rhythm and energy of the site, as well as the area’s history and its role in the development of locomotive engines. The finished artwork should create a visually interesting experience for people moving through the tunnel.
This opportunity is for visual artists interested in creating significant public artwork in Newcastle city centre. We welcome applications from artists across the UK, but are particularly interested in artists who are based in, work in, or have strong links to the North East region. The selected artist must be able to complete the artwork between October and December 2026. Artists must also have the appropriate certification for working at height, such as PASMA and/or IPAF, depending on the access equipment used.
What are we looking for?
- Responds to the theme of Motion
- Considers the tunnel’s history, location and use
- Creates an engaging experience for people moving through the tunnel
- Can be painted directly onto the tunnel walls
- Takes account of the glazed brick surface, moisture and future weathering
- Is an original artwork created for Forth Street Tunnel
- Is deliverable between October and December 2026
- Is suitable for painting onto glazed brick
- Meets the working-at-height requirements
- Is suitable for varnishing once complete
What support is included?
- Two shortlisted artists will each receive a £1,000 development fee to work up their ideas in more detail before the final decision is made.
- The final selected artist will receive:
- £34,000 total commission fee, including design, materials and painting works
- Support with permits
- Promotion via Creative Central NCL social media and communications activity
Application process
The deadline for applications is 11:59pm on Wednesday 10 June 2026. Applications should be the equivalent of one side of A4 or a maximum two-minute audio/video recording, and must include:
- A brief artist bio
- Links to your previous work or portfolio
- A summary of your idea and how it responds to the brief
- A quick sketch of your idea, or supporting images that help explain your approach
Timeline for the selection process:
- Shortlisting: 10 June – 19 July 2026
- Artist notified: week of 22 July 2026
- Shortlisted artist interviews: 27 July – 7 August 2026
- Final artist selection: by the end of August 2026
- Project delivery: 1 October – 31 December 2026
Read the full guidelines and apply by 11:59pm on Wednesday 10 June 2026.
[closed] Forth Street Tunnel Commission employer: Creative Central NCL
As a leading opportunity for visual artists, this commission offers a unique chance to create impactful public artwork in the vibrant city of Newcastle. With a focus on collaboration and community engagement, artists will benefit from a generous commission fee, development support, and promotional opportunities through Creative Central NCL, fostering both professional growth and artistic expression in a culturally rich environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land [closed] Forth Street Tunnel Commission
✨Build a Killer Portfolio
Make sure you have a stunning online portfolio showcasing your best work. Highlight a variety of styles and create case studies for projects that explain your thought process — this will help potential clients see your versatility and creativity!
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We think you need these skills to ace [closed] Forth Street Tunnel Commission
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Portfolio:As a freelance graphic designer, your portfolio is your biggest selling point. Make sure to showcase a diverse range of work, highlighting not just finished pieces but your design process too. Include case studies that illustrate how your designs solved problems for clients or communities!
Tailor Your CV to Shine:While CVs in graphic design might be less formal, it's crucial to effectively present your skills. Focus on including relevant software proficiencies (like Adobe Creative Suite) and any awards or recognitions you’ve received for your designs. Highlighting your adaptability and unique style can make your CV stand out!
Be Clear About Your Rates:As a freelancer, transparency is key! When applying to Creative Central NCL for the [closed] Forth Street Tunnel Commission position, be upfront about your rates and what those include—like revisions or additional services. This builds trust and helps potential clients understand what they’re getting for their investment.
Craft a Personalised Cover Letter:A cover letter is your chance to connect with Creative Central NCL beyond your designs. Talk about why you’re drawn to their projects and how your freelance work aligns with their vision. This personal touch can make a huge difference in standing out among other applications!
How to prepare for a job interview at Creative Central NCL
✨Show Off Your Best Work
As a freelance graphic designer, your portfolio is your superpower. Make sure to curate a selection that showcases your style and versatility—think about what pieces best represent the type of projects you'd want to work on with Creative Central NCL. Be prepared to discuss the ideas behind each piece and the tools you used.
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Familiarity with design software is crucial, especially programmes like Adobe Creative Suite or other tools relevant to the job. Be ready for some technical questions that may dig into your proficiency—Creative Central NCL might want to know how you approach design challenges using specific software.
✨Understand the Client's Vision
Freelancing is all about collaboration, so take some time to research Creative Central NCL's past design projects. Understand their branding and design language. During the interview, be prepared to discuss how you can adapt your skills to align with their vision and add value to their team.
✨Pitch Your Unique Value
Freelancing means you’re selling not just your skills, but your unique perspective. When you're chatting with Creative Central NCL, clearly convey what sets you apart. Tailor your pitch to illustrate how your background, skills, and experiences can benefit their projects, ensuring they see you as a valuable addition to their creative team.
