In partnership with LeedsBID and Leeds City Council, East Street Arts are thrilled to be offering a range of paid, street art opportunities based in Leeds, UK. These commissions invite local, national and international artists to propose works that reflect the city and its people in an exciting and visual way, adding to the public art Leeds has to offer.

Introduction

What happens when an artist articulates the conversations and cultures of communities?

What cultural shifts happen when people take pride in their public spaces?

How does a visitor discover a city through its art and its artists?

What role do artists play in the renovation and shaping of cities?

In partnership with LeedsBID and Leeds City Council, East Street Arts are thrilled to be offering a range of paid, street art opportunities based in Leeds, UK. At a time when the city is creating a case to be Capital of Culture, collaborating to write its first, co-produced Cultural Strategy and employing more people in the creative industries than it ever has, this project aims to reflect the vibrancy of a growing, multicultural hub by bringing colour, curiosity and interest to the streets of Leeds.

These commissions invite local, national and international artists to propose works that reflect the city and its people in an exciting and visual way, adding to the public art Leeds has to offer.

The Offer

What are we looking for?

We are inviting proposals for 2D works that celebrate the vibrant and diverse multiculturalism that exists in Leeds. The work might involve paint, collage, sculpture, text-based work, ceramics, photography or textiles. It is not essential that the work is designed with community involvement, but we would welcome proposals like this.

We are looking for thoughtful and striking proposals that are influenced by and representative of the city of Leeds and the diverse range of people that live here. You might choose to reference the city’s architecture, industrial history or particular communities. 

How many artists will we commission?

We are seeking to commission 4 artists: Two from the Leeds area and two from outside Leeds (national or international). The artists will be chosen by representatives from both East Street Arts and LeedsBID.

The budget for each commission is £7,500: This is to include artist fee, materials, installation and travel. Official material partners, Fred Aldous and Art Official, are able to offer reduced rate materials to artists participating in this project.

Please note: There is a small, supplementary budget available for logistical expenses. We can also support artists travelling into Leeds to complete this project by offering reduced rate accommodation at the Art Hostel. Please mention any extra support, materials or needs you may have in your proposal.

Where will the work go?

We are in the process of securing a range of city-centre sites within the LeedsBID area (Take a look at the LeedsBID area by clicking here) The sites in discussion include hoardings, brick walls, plastered surfaces and railway arches. If your work requires a particular type of site, please let us know in your proposal.

How long will the works stay up?

The length of time that the works can stay will vary for each site, but will be no less than a year.