Artists sought for art works on Metro’s new trains

Nexus has just launched a major new arts commission for the Tyne and Wear Metro with artists wanted to create large-scale new works for the interiors of 46 new trains currently being bult by Stadler and due to start entering service from 2023. The selected works will be displayed on each new train’s end walls facing into the seating areas.

The commission will be grant funded by Arts Council England with an open call for established artists to put themselves forward. A final four will then be selected to create permanent works to be added to the trains.

Huw Lewis, Customer Services Director at Nexus, said: “We are seeking established artists for a unique opportunity to create new visual works for Metro which will be seen by millions of people as they travel in North East England. We believe this is the first time in the world a commission has been launched for large-scale permanent art within a new train, and it builds on our long and proud heritage bringing inspiration to local people’s journeys. The design of our new trains has been shaped by the customers who will use them through extensive consultation with more than 23,000 people.  One key theme was that customers wanted to see the end walls brought to life, and with project grant funding from Arts Council England we are able to achieve that.”

Nexus are working alongside Stadler on these artworks with the manufacturer due to apply reproductions to the cab walls during the construction of the trains in Switzerland.

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