NEWQUAY town centre is set to receive a vibrant splash of creativity in the coming weeks. 

Work on the first mural site begins this week at MIX NQY on East Street, which is part of the forthcoming Be Newquay Festival, MUQY between November 1 and December 1 to help the town become a year-round destination.

The murals are being organised by Slapdash Studios and features renowned artists Kleiner Shames, Elle Koziupa, and 45 RPM, each contributing their unique style to the town centre.

Each artist will create a large-scale mural, celebrating Newquay’s unique heritage and identity. The murals will be painted throughout September and October, culminating in the Be Newquay Festival in November. 

During the festival, all three murals will be connected as part of a free Street Art walking trail. Additionally, street art workshops and activities will be available in November.

The first mural will be created by talented Cornwall-based artist Kleiner Shames, using ideas generated in an August workshop hosted by Youth Art Connect.

Designed with the local community at its heart, the Be Newquay Festival will feature a variety of events produced by local organisations including live shows, workshops, exhibitions, outdoor and well-being experiences to showcase the town’s vibrant way of life and unique culture.

ALMA Artspace CIC has been commissioned to deliver a winter arts programme and a large-scale sculptural commission, in collaboration with artist Robin Sullivan. ALMA will be hosting exhibitions, workshops and events at venues throughout Newquay to brighten the winter months, celebrate Newquay’s heritage and explore its cultural potential.

ALMA working with artist Robin Sullivan will deliver an ambitious large-scale sculptural commission in the form of ceramic monoliths. Each monolith will be made in collaboration with the community during a series of workshops held throughout the summer where people will be able to contribute directly to the artworks whilst learning more about Newquay’s archaeological heritage. 

To the Moon and Back by Rob Mennear will combine dance, theatre, sound installation and projection to create immersive experiences that entice and surprise. Coinciding with the super full moon, the evening experience will invite people to explore spaces in the town centre that have been transformed and co-created with residents, bringing stories of Newquay’s community to life.  

The month-long celebration will take place on weekends in November at different venues across the town.  Many events will be free or affordably priced, ensuring that all residents and visitors can participate.

A spokesperson for Be Newquay Festival, MUQY, said: “The content of the murals is currently a surprise, but with painting starting this week, keep an eye out as the artwork begins to take shape.”

For more information on the entire activity programme, visit the website  www.benewquayfestival.co.uk, which is being continually updated.