What is the opportunity?
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.
Who is it for?
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.
