Belfast weekend of street art will "help businesses affected by dereliction"

An organisation promoting Belfast City Centre has said a street art festival will “fight antisocial behaviour and dereliction.”

This weekend, the streets of Belfast City Centre are set to undergo a transformation as local and internationally renowned artists gather for the "Hit the North" street art festival.

Organised by Seedhead Arts and supported by Belfast One, the festival aims to infuse colour and creativity into the urban landscape, breathing new life into neglected parts of Belfast, including the stalled Tribeca area.

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A series of workshops and exhibitions will be taking place across the city over the weekend, offering participants and visitors alike the opportunity to engage with the vibrant world of street art - sign writing workshops, art auctions and creator spotlights are programmed from May 2 right through the following weekend.

The festival will also feature a "mini-jam" on Lower Garfield Street and Royal Avenue on May 25th, where local artists will collaborate on transforming the hoarding around the Tribeca area.

Belfast One Business Improvement District was established in 2016 as an independent not-for-profit company promoting Belfast City Centre.

Callum Craig of Belfast One said: “While we acknowledge this project doesn't solve all issues surrounding Tribeca, we think it helps to combat anti-social behaviour, add some vibrancy to the area and help to support businesses affected by dereliction, such as The Deer’s Head until more serious intervention takes place.

"This piece is also predominantly crafted by local artists, which we hope will encourage community involvement and ownership.”

He added: "Investment in Hit the North underscores a commitment to fostering creativity and revitalising neglected urban spaces. By supporting initiatives like this, the BID aims to address graffiti, antisocial behaviour and urban neglect, while celebrating the positive impact of street art on communities.

"Something to note, perhaps, is the distinction between graffiti and street art. Graffiti, often associated with vandalism and unauthorised markings on public or private property, represents a form of unsanctioned expression that can take away from the aesthetic appeal and safety of urban spaces.

"Commissioned street art, however, stands as a testament to the collaborative synergy between local artists, property owners, and community stakeholders, and often serves to improve the appearance and safety of an urban area.

A detailed timeline of events can be found on the festival's official website here

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