For the seventh year, international artists have taken over Scotland’s third-largest city for Nuart Aberdeen. Eleven artists descended on the city in early June to create public art centered around the theme “Living Heritage.” In doing so, they continue to transform the fabric of the port city.
The organizers encouraged all of the artists to think about the ephemeral nature of their work and how the murals exist far beyond the final images that circulate online.
“I’d urge everyone, in this media-saturated world of pretty murals, to spend a little extra time thinking about what and who is behind these final hero shots and how they contribute to making the city a slightly better place to be in these trying times,” shared Nuart founder and curator Martyn Reed.
From Case Maclaim‘s realistic portrait of fellow artist Addam Yekutieli to Bahia Shehab‘s graphic interpretation of poetry, the finished works are a powerful reminder of our complicated times. Projects focusing on freedom, peace, disillusionment, and hope for the future all weave a complex narrative of current events.
Other standout work includes a large mural by Italian artist Millo, which incorporates photographs depicting historic local events. Scottish artist KMG also embodies local history with a set of three murals of Celtic goddesses at the Aberdeen airport.
This year’s work adds over 10 permanent installations to the city, bringing Nuart Aberdeen’s total to more than 60 public pieces of art scattered across the urban landscape. Scroll down to see more highlights from this year’s festival.