The Great Exhibition of the North opens today, beginning an 80-day celebration of northern art, design and innovation across Newcastle and Gateshead.
More than 30 venues and public spaces on both sides of the Tyne are participating in the programme, which runs until 9 September.
The exhibition will take visitors on routes through Newcastle and Gateshead, connecting cultural attractions, public artworks, performances and displays celebrating the North’s creativity and achievements.
This is a major moment for our city and the wider region. Newcastle and Gateshead won the right to host the exhibition through an ambitious partnership bid involving councils, cultural organisations, universities and businesses.
The programme will give northern artists, designers, researchers and innovators a national platform. It will also introduce visitors to the outstanding venues and public spaces that make Newcastle and Gateshead such a distinctive destination.
Culture makes an enormous contribution to Newcastle. It supports employment, education, tourism and local businesses while enriching the lives of residents.
We expect the exhibition to bring significant numbers of visitors to Tyneside, supporting hotels, shops, restaurants and the wider visitor economy. Our aim is to ensure that the benefits continue after the programme closes in September.
The exhibition should leave stronger partnerships, wider recognition of our cultural institutions and renewed confidence in the North’s capacity to lead in art, design and innovation.
Newcastle Labour is proud of the role our city is playing in this celebration. We encourage residents to explore the programme, visit participating venues and enjoy the events taking place throughout the summer.
Newcastle Labour Leader, Cllr Nick Forbes said:
“The Great Exhibition of the North is our opportunity to show the country the creativity, talent and innovation found across Newcastle, Gateshead and the wider North. We are proud to welcome visitors and determined to create a legacy that lasts long after this summer.”