Padiham Gable Art Phase 2: Gable-End Artwork Commissions

About this call

Burnley Borough Council, with support from Mid Pennine Arts, wants to commission an artist or artists to design and install gable-end artworks on two buildings in Padiham town centre, building on two existing murals in the town. Site 1 is a tall rendered gable on Church St; Site 2 is a smaller rendered gable beside The Lawrence Hotel, suited to a ghost sign or heritage-themed painted signage. Proposals need not be figurative murals and may include heritage-inspired artwork, contemporary interpretations of local stories, textile and pattern designs, ghost signs, typography, subtle palette designs or designs inspired by local materials, craftsmanship or industry, and must respect the historic townscape and conservation area. No concept designs are asked for at this stage. Artists may apply for one or both gables; the Council may appoint one artist for both or different artists. Shortlisting and interviews by 16 November, appointment by end November, murals completed by end March 2027.

Who can apply

• International applicants
• Medium: Painting
• Entry fee: See official site
• Submit by email to melanie@midpenninearts.org.uk with the subject line Gable Art Project 2 followed by your first and second name: a portfolio with at least three examples of completed mural, public art or large-scale exterior artwork commissions, with images, brief project descriptions and your role in each; two referees for whom similar work was done within the last five years, with contact details and project details; a brief statement on your approach to heritage and conservation-sensitive projects, experience of working at height and health and safety arrangements, and experience of engaging with communities and stakeholders; a separate fixed lump-sum fee proposal for each gable (covering artist fees, design development, materials, site visits, travel, accommodation, insurance, specialist equipment and other costs, but not access equipment); and your standard day rate for extra work. No ideas or concept designs at this stage. If you do not receive an email confirming your submission within 24 hours of sending, contact nick@midpenninearts.org.uk. Selected artists must hold or obtain £2m Public Liability and £2m Indemnity insurance, submit a risk assessment and provide their own PPE and health and safety training; the work is at high level. They work with a project steering group. Assessment: Quality 40%, Experience 40%, Add Value 10% (local knowledge or appreciation of the area and willingness to take part in wider publicity and communications), Price 10%. Artists must demonstrate an understanding of the two existing murals and of working within historic environments and conservation area principles.