New street art festival begins

Over the three days,100 plus local, national and international artists will be transforming 60 permanent and temporary walls around the city centre with some incredible, large-scale artwork. The highlight of the festival will be the ‘Pop-up Park’, where 20+ artists will paint live on three, 20 metre long temporary walls. Surrounded by picnic benches, faux grass, music and lights, it will create a real festival vibe in the middle of the High Street.

With lots going on around the city centre and seafront, organisers have released a map detailing where everything is happening so visitors don’t miss a thing. Print versions will be available over the course of the festival from the Festival HQ in the Royals Shopping Centre, or from the roaming stewards. A digital version is also available on the City Jam website.

Cllr Carole Mulroney, cabinet member for environment, culture and tourism, said: “The City Jam festival is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the cultural excellence within our City. In total, 60 walls will be transformed with astonishing artwork that will bring the High Street and surrounding areas to life.

“World-renowned artists are taking part in this year’s festival, which will give young, aspiring artists the chance to see some of their heroes’ work displayed in their home City. We want to astound and inspire with Southend City Jam, and the free festival is sure to entice people from across the country to see the incredible artwork on display.”

Jacquie Dallimore, chair of the Southend Tourism Partnership, said: “We are delighted to once again work with Southend-on-Sea City Council to bring yet another amazing art festival to Southend-on-Sea. Some of the artists have been working tirelessly to perfect their craft and we are honoured to be able to display these pieces for all to see."

Further information regarding the event, including full details of all the artists involved, can be found on the website www.southendcityjam.co.uk