Global Artists Revitalize Aberdeen with Nuart Festival
The grey walls of Aberdeen, known as the Granite City, are once again vibrant with colour as the city's acclaimed street art festival, Nuart, makes its return.
Since its inception in 2017, the Nuart Festival has been held annually except during the Covid-19 lockdown period. The event attracts artists from across the globe who create striking designs on walls and building facades throughout the city.
Nuart 2026 runs from Wednesday evening through to Sunday, featuring a total of 13 artists who are transforming various walls. The artworks include a combination of large-scale murals—traditionally the festival's highlights—and smaller pieces.
Origins of Nuart in Aberdeen
The Nuart Festival was originally established in 2001 by British artist and curator Martyn Reed in Stavanger, Norway, where he is based. Six years later, in 2017, Nuart Aberdeen was launched and quickly became a success, drawing visitors into the city centre.
The festival offers organised walking tours that guide attendees around the diverse and eye-catching murals, while visitors can also explore independently at their own pace. Many of the artworks created during previous festivals remain visible in the city today.
Locations of New Artworks in 2026
This year, one notable site is the historic Bon Accord baths, an art deco building that opened in 1940 but closed in 2008 due to council budget cuts. Artist Robert Montgomery's installation here marks Nuart Aberdeen's first indoor work, providing the public an opportunity to view inside the building once again.
The artwork inside the baths will be unveiled on Wednesday night, coinciding with the official start of the festival. Additional locations include the side of Chapel Street car park and North East Scotland College at the Gallowgate.
A guide is available detailing the participating artists, walking tours, and maps showing the locations of new murals as well as those from previous years that remain on display.
Impact of Covid-19 on Nuart Festival
The 2020 Nuart festival was planned but ultimately cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Usual festival locations, typically bustling with crowds, were deserted during lockdown periods.
BBC Scotland News captured images illustrating the stark contrast between the busy streets of past festivals and the eerily empty city during the pandemic.
Students Recreate Murals to Celebrate Festival's Return
Students from Robert Gordon University (RGU) in Aberdeen have contributed to promoting this year's festival. Lisa Bruce, Keira O'Brien, and Luke Chalmers, who are on placement with the business group Aberdeen Inspired involved with Nuart, have recreated mirror images of existing murals.
Keira O'Brien, a fashion management student, said: "We hope people will really enjoy seeing our own interpretation of these much-loved murals. But we also hope it will inspire people to have a go at recreating their own versions.
"Above all else, we hope that we have met the brief of creating a bit of extra buzz and excitement as Nuart Aberdeen bursts back into life."
Festival Director Comments on the Event
Martyn Reed, director and curator of Nuart, commented on the diversity of the artworks, stating:
"There will be works no bigger than your hand and there'll be works as big as a house."
He expressed gratitude to all involved, saying:
"Thank you to everyone involved for allowing us once again to make a contribution to what we believe is a magical and inspiring city."
Weather Forecast During Nuart Festival
The weather forecast for Aberdeen during the festival suggests dry conditions with a mix of sunshine and clouds. Temperatures are expected to be around 11°C, providing favourable conditions for visitors to enjoy the outdoor artworks.
