Byker pride takes centre stage in mural

A Newcastle youth project has transformed part of the iconic Byker estate with new street art celebrating its community spirit.

Young residents collaborated with local graffiti artist MarkOne87 to create a large mural on the Northern Stage rehearsal building, on Brinkburn Street, inspired by their experiences of growing up on the estate. 

The work was part of a six-month creative project delivered by Karbon Homes and Foundation Futures, supported by Historic England through its History in the Making programme.

Victoria Keen, Karbon Homes’ place lead, said: “It’s great to see the final artwork on display, which recognises the history of Byker through street art and the young, local artists who helped create it. 

“It’s a fantastic representation of the Byker community. 

“The project plays an integral role in our Thriving Byker Strategy to increase a sense of pride in the estate and bring to life its unique heritage.  

“Community initiatives like this are part of Karbon’s place-based approach to engage with our customers, support local growth and enliven neighbourhood spaces. 

“Historic England’s funding has given the young people of Byker a brilliant opportunity to create their own piece of history for others to enjoy.” 

Tom Frater, North East and Yorkshire regional director at Historic England, added: “Historic England is proud to support this inspiring project through our History in the Making programme. 

“The Byker estate holds a special place in the modern history of Tyneside and in our national architectural heritage as one of the most significant examples of 1960s social housing design, something reflected in its high Grade II-listing.  

“This community-led street art initiative demonstrates how young people can engage with and celebrate their local heritage in creative and meaningful ways. 

“The project honours Byker's remarkable social history whilst empowering the next generation to become active guardians of their architectural legacy.” 

Workshops hosted by the Farrell Centre and Northern Cultural Projects CIC explored the estate’s design and social history, helping the group shape ideas for the final piece. 

They then worked with MarkOne87 across seven sessions to bring their designs to life.

Georgia Bates, youth learning and community specialist at Foundation Futures, added: "Byker isn’t just a place, it’s a community made up of good people who look out for each other and care. 

“That’s the real Byker, and that’s what this artwork is all about. 

“It represents both the people who shaped this community and what it means to grow up here today. 

“Byker has a past to be proud of and a future to believe in.”

The painted wall is one of several artworks produced through the £14,650 project, with others set to appear across the estate. 

It continues a growing partnership between Karbon and the ELEMENTS Street Art Festival to bring youth-led creativity into the community.

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