The local artists using The Angel of the North to inspire

In the heart of Newcastle, a fantastic community initiative is taking flight. Inspired by the iconic Angel of the North, a group of local artists have begun a mission to spark creativity in the city's younger generation.

Read our full coverage of Culture news from Newcastle →

One of these artists is Emily Thompson, a renowned painter and sculptor. "The Angel of the North isn't just a sculpture; it's a symbol of our shared identity, our resilience, and our creativity as a community. We want our young people to understand this and use the Angel as a source of inspiration in their own creative journeys," she explains.

The project has already seen a positive response, with hundreds of children attending workshops and exhibitions. The art created by these young talents is then displayed in local galleries and public spaces, allowing the entire community to celebrate the creativity of its younger members. Not only does this initiative encourage artistic expression, but it also helps to build a sense of community pride and cohesion.

One of the most successful projects is the annual "Angel Art Festival", where children and teenagers across Newcastle are invited to create their own interpretations of the Angel of the North. The festival culminates in a grand exhibition at the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, showcasing the creativity and diversity of Newcastle's young artists.

"The Angel Art Festival is a fantastic opportunity for young people to express themselves, to be seen and heard," says Jack Robinson, another artist involved in the project. "It's about more than just art. It's about giving our young people a sense of belonging, of being part of something bigger."

As this inspiring initiative continues, the Angel of the North stands as more than just a landmark. It's a symbol of Newcastle's vibrant artistic community, a source of inspiration, and a beacon of hope for the city's future creatives.