Fee
Deadline
Open To
These commissions have been awarded, find out about the selected artists here.
What is it?
This is an open call for two mural commissions as part of the next phase of the Forth Lane Urban Gallery in Newcastle city centre. Read about phase 1 and the commissioned artists here.
The project will see two new murals installed on timber fences along Forth Lane, transforming this once overlooked alley into a vibrant public art corridor. The new commissions will respond to the theme ‘Pleasure Garden’ and must create the illusion of a three-dimensional space beyond the fence—inviting passers-by to imagine what lies just beyond.
Each mural commission has a value of £1,500 with an additional £300 per artist will be allocated for post-installation maintenance.
Who is it for?
This opportunity is open to artists and creatives interested in showcasing their work in a central Newcastle location. We especially welcome submissions from artists based in, or with strong connections to, Newcastle and the North East.
Artists must be able to complete the artwork in Autumn 2025 (exact dates to be confirmed) and should be willing to participate in meet-ups and promotional activity alongside other commissioned artists and stakeholders.
What are the non-negotiable criteria?
All submitted ideas must:
- Be original works created specifically for the Forth Lane Urban Gallery.
- Respond to the theme ‘Pleasure Garden’.
- Create the illusion of a three-dimensional space beyond the alley fence.
- Be designed for painting onto timber fence panels.
- Be able to be completed during Autumn 2025.
Application Process
Please read the guidelines in full before starting your application.
Applications for the Forth Lane Urban Gallery commissions must be submitted by 9am on Monday 30 June 2025.
Submissions should be no more than one side of A4 or a 2-minute audio/video recording, and must include:
- A brief artist biography
- Links to previous work or portfolio
- A summary of your idea and how it responds to the theme and three-dimensional brief
- A quick sketch or supporting visuals (this can be a draft design or inspiration images)
We aim to keep the process as accessible and flexible as possible. If you need this brief in another format or have specific access requirements, please get in touch.
Submitting your application
Send your application to: info@creativecentralncl.co.uk
Subject line: Forth Lane Urban Gallery
For questions or access support, please contact:
Anna Czigler – Anna.Czigler@newcastle.gov.uk
Vikki Leaney – Vikki.Leaney@newcastle.gov.uk
Applicants will be informed by 21 July 2025.
Creative Central NCL is funded by the North East Combined Authority and Newcastle City Council and this commission is also funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
