The hugely-popular Nuart Aberdeen tours return from this weekend, offering everyone a chance to explore the street art festival’s rich legacy that has forever changed the cityscape.
The tours will run from this Sunday, March 30, right through the summer, giving people the chance to discover the range of works – from mammoth murals to intimate pieces – as well as hear the stories of how they were created and the world-class artists behind them.
Martin Widerlechner, who is part of the Nuart production team and principal guide for the tours, said he was looking forward to leading visitors around the many wonderful works and stressed how inclusive the tours are.
"From toddlers in prams to retirees, we've hosted people, dogs and even one cat from all walks of life and that's the way it should be,” said Martin.
“The tours are very down-to-earth and people often comment on enjoying the casual nature of the walks. Our guides are not preaching some highbrow theories. We are just a bunch of people that were lucky enough to be involved in the festival and are keen to pass on our knowledge and stories from the production of those works.
“Most of the people joining these tours are locals which is great to see. People are keen to re-discover their own city, walk through the streets they've not walked through before and learn something new along the way."
He added that to boost inclusivity, the tours are free to children under 15 and free places are available for those who might not be able to pay. The routes – West, Central and East – all start in roughly the same area and avoid stairs. They are also held on Sundays to offer better access to affordable parking.
Martin said he was delighted at just how popular the tours have become since they started in 2017 as part of the first Nuart Aberdeen, brought to the city by Aberdeen Inspired and Aberdeen City Council and delivered by Reed Projects.
“I think when these were set up in 2017, none of us expected them to remain so popular for years to come," he said.
“It's important that as well as showing off the most recent works, we keep revisiting the older artworks as they change with time. And let's not forget many smaller uncommissioned artworks we stumble across on our walk.”
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said he was thrilled that the Nuart Aberdeen tours were back for the summer.
“Nuart has left a remarkable and indelible mark on the cityscape of Aberdeen over the years and these tours are a fantastic way for people to see and enjoy the transformational change of what has been hailed as one of the top six street art festivals in the world,” said Adrian.
“Seeing these works up close and hearing stories from Martin of how they were created and what inspired the artists is the ideal way to discover just how special Nuart is and the legacy it has left.”
Adrian said the tours will attract people into the city centre, not only to discover the iconic works but also enjoy many other attractions on offer.
“We hope that people will enjoy their voyage of discovery on the Nuart Aberdeen tour, then linger in the city for something to eat, have a post-tour drink or go on to enjoy one of the many other attractions the Granite City has to offer,” he said.
Dates for the next Nuart Aberdeen festival are still being finalised.
Nuart Aberdeen tour tickets can be booked now at a cost of £7 per adult (with a £1.30 fee on Eventbrite), free for children under 15. Free place are available for those who may not be able to pay. For more information on the tours and the link to book places visit here.