Aberdeen’s renowned Nuart street art festival is set to captivate residents and visitors alike as it kicks off on Thursday. The vibrant event, which attracts talented artists from across the globe, has been a staple in the Granite City since its inception in 2017, with the only hiatus occurring in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, the usually bustling streets and walls that serve as canvases for the festival were eerily empty.
This year, the festival will transform the city centre’s walls into expansive works of art. Notable locations such as Aberdeen International Airport and the Union Point office tower near the ferry terminal will showcase enormous murals. Other prominent buildings featuring striking artworks include the former John Lewis store, Aberdeen Health Village, and the Atholl House office block.
Nuart is orchestrated by Aberdeen Inspired, a business improvement organisation dedicated to enhancing the city’s appeal. Adrian Watson, the chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, expressed his pride in the festival’s international recognition, emphasising its importance as a point of pride for Aberdeen.
“The event is now recognised on the global stage, which is something to be proud of,” Watson remarked. “It highlights the city’s commitment to fostering a vibrant arts scene and engaging locals and visitors through innovative and accessible public art.”
Nuart brings a splash of colour to Aberdeen and engages the community through various activities. This year’s festival includes walking tours, allowing attendees to explore the artworks up close and learn about the artists and their creative processes. These tours provide a unique opportunity to gain insight into the themes and inspirations behind the murals, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art form.
Since its debut, Nuart has been instrumental in redefining Aberdeen’s cultural landscape. The festival’s influence extends beyond mere aesthetics, contributing to the city’s economic vitality by drawing tourists and encouraging local spending. The presence of internationally acclaimed artists has also positioned Aberdeen as a key destination in the global street art scene.
The murals themselves are as diverse as the artists who create them. They range from bold, abstract compositions to intricate, thought-provoking pieces that reflect contemporary social issues. This diversity ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy and ponder, making the festival an inclusive cultural event.
One of this year’s festival highlights is the mural at Aberdeen International Airport, which welcomes visitors with a vibrant, larger-than-life artwork that sets the tone for their stay in the city. Similarly, the Union Point office tower mural serves as a landmark for those arriving by ferry, instantly immersing them in the festival’s creative spirit.
In addition to the visual feast provided by the murals, Nuart fosters a sense of community and shared experience. The walking tours, in particular, encourage interaction among attendees, sparking conversations about art, culture, and the city’s evolving identity. The artists enrich these interactions and often participate in discussions and workshops, offering their perspectives and engaging directly with the audience.
The Nuart festival runs until Sunday, providing ample time for art enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the myriad murals adorning the city’s buildings. As the festival grows in scope and acclaim, it cements Aberdeen’s reputation as a vibrant hub for street art and cultural innovation.
In a city known for its granite architecture, Nuart brings a refreshing and dynamic contrast, celebrating the transformative power of art in public spaces. As the festival unfolds, Aberdeen’s streets will again come alive with colour, creativity, and a palpable sense of community spirit.
