Designed to appear hand painted with bold colours, the mural appears to imitate film posters and be a homage to classic 1950s western films. The project’s name ‘Stepney Western’ fits in and plays up to the mural’s horsey theme.
The mural depicts paintings of various horse riders and horses from the Stepney Bank Stables charity. Located in Ouseburn, the riding school not only gives young people to chance to horse ride but to also socialise and grow in confidence through their volunteering program. The stables even offer an alternative provision program where children finding mainstream education difficult can earn equestrian qualifications.
The mural created by local filmmaker Harry Lawson also shows other landmarks from East Newcastle, most notably the Byker metro viaduct. When commenting on the work, Mr Lawson said “It's a real joy to see the Stepney Western project come to life on this scale. The success of an artwork like this relies on the creativity and ambition of so many people.” Alongside with the mural, a spinoff project was created – a documentary about the Byker Phoenix community. The documentary reportedly combines material from the North East Film Archive and clips filmed by riders themselves. The documentary is set to premiere on the 15th of March to April 2025.
This latest addition to Byker metro station’s display of local art is a celebration of the local community. Given that it promotes the stable and has inspired more recognition to local businesses in Newcastle, this mural certainly cements itself as a ‘must-see’ of Byker station’s exhibition.