Discover the best cities to experience vibrant street art in Britain, from Aberdeen to Margate. While London may be known for its iconic street art, there are incredible art scenes outside of the capital that deserve recognition. Here are some recommended locations shared by the art experts at IBA – The International Body of Art:
Margate, England: Margate has become a renowned art destination, known for its beautiful seaside views. Here, you’ll find stunning murals focused on environmental and ocean conservation themes. Look out for the upcoming mural, ‘Rise Up Residency’ by Louis Masai, which raises awareness about plastic pollution and features marine biologist Amanda Vincent.
Northern Quarter, Manchester: Manchester is a hub of artistic expression, boasting an array of stunning artwork from both local and international artists. The Northern Quarter, in particular, initiated the Cities of Hope project, where renowned street artists created murals highlighting global key issues close to their hearts.
Belfast, Northern Ireland: Belfast, a politically-charged city, showcases thought-provoking street art. One notable mural, located on Harrow Street, pays homage to the people of Ukraine. Painted by Emic, it features a large black and white sunflower, the national flower of Ukraine, symbolising resilience in the face of adversity.
Aberdeen, Scotland: Scotland has its fair share of captivating street art, and Aberdeen is a standout. Keep an eye out for ‘Punishment,’ a famous mural by Slim Safont on Union Row. It depicts a young girl being taught to conform to societal norms, offering commentary on women’s indoctrination in society.
Bristol, England: Bristol is renowned as the birthplace of Banksy, but its street art scene extends far beyond his work. Although some of Banksy’s earlier pieces have been removed, you can still discover some around the city, such as the iconic ‘Well Hung Lover’ on Frogmore Street. Additionally, Bristol hosts Upfest the largest free street art festival in the UK.
IBA, the International Body of Art, advocates for a more inclusive and accessible art world. They support emerging artists by helping them acquire funding and showcasing their work in London art shows. By challenging borders and boundaries, IBA aims to create an art world that encourages the creation, access, and sharing of art for all.
