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. Since becoming residents of Kirkgate with the opening of Art Hostel in 2016, East Street Arts has further questioned how artists can proactively and positively be involved in the reinvention and preservation of public space. This commission is for local artists who want to create a bespoke piece for the oldest street in Leeds.

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.

Since becoming residents of Kirkgate with the opening of Art Hostel in 2016, East Street Arts has further questioned how artists can proactively and positively be involved in the reinvention and preservation of public space. This commission is for local artists who want to create a bespoke piece for the oldest street in Leeds.

The Offer

What are we looking for?

We are inviting proposals for 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. We welcome proposals that include an element of community participation, though this is not essential.

How many artists will we commission?

We want to commission 3 artists or small collectives who are local to Leeds. The artists will be chosen by representatives from East Street Arts, LeedsBID and Leeds City Council Regeneration Team. Each artist/collective involved will be offered a fee of £800. An additional budget to support material costs is available. Our material partners, Art Official and Fred Aldous, are able to offer a discount on materials for participating artists.

Where will the work go?

The site for this commission is the hoarding in front of First White Cloth Hall on Kirkgate. This is the oldest street in Leeds, currently undergoing regeneration. It is situated on a busy bus route, alongside local, independent businesses such as Art Hostel, Fred Aldous, Art Official, Wepentake, Oddfellows Tattoo Parlour and several restaurants. The address for the site is: Kirkgate, Leeds LS2 7DJ

When will it be installed?

We are aiming all the first work in November 2016; the second work would follow in March 2017 and the final one in July 2017.

How long will the work stay up?

The work installed on the hoarding will change every four months for a total of year; one commission replacing another.