A new piece of artwork has been unveiled at Byker Tyne and Wear Metro station which celebrates the diversity and cultural heritage of Shields Road. The large mural provides a positive snapshot of everyday life in the local area and is on display in the ticket concourse at the station.
Nexus has worked alongside Arts Council England on the project with businesses on Shields Road also having played a part. Scores of individual photos, words and slogans help to make up the eye-catching display. It is the work of local artists Sally Southern and Nicola Lynch.
The artists said: “Like many high streets across the country, Shields Road has faced difficulties since its glory days, especially in the current economic climate. However, despite tough times and high levels of anti-social behaviour, the strong spirit, resilience and diversity of the businesses and community is evident with the shops and shop keepers are the heart of the area and you really can find anything on Shields Road. We have absolutely loved working with everyone involved and are delighted with the finished work and seeing their reaction when the artwork was unveiled was the perfect culmination.”
Huw Lewis, Nexus Customer Services Director, commented: “Byker has become a great location for public art over the years, and I’m delighted that is continuing with this latest collaboration with Arts Council England This latest piece celebrates Shields Road and the people who work there, and in many cases these are people who have worked there all of their lives.
“The mural captures the heritage and wide diversity which Shields Road has in abundance. I’m delighted Nexus has been able to play a part in this project and offer the space at Byker Metro station to showcase the finished piece, which will be seen by thousands of our customers as they pass through the concourse.”