A year of creativity, collaboration and community has culminated in a colourful new chapter for Berwick’s waterfront, as the town’s iconic Quayside Huts have been transformed by students from Berwick Academy working alongside artist Martha Ellis.
The vibrant new designs mark the end of Martha’s year-long artist residency with the school as part of the Living Barracks Partnership engagement programme, Berwick Shines, during which students explored her distinctive creative practice through workshops, collaborative projects and hands-on learning. Now, the skills, confidence and ideas they’ve developed over the past year have become part of Berwick’s public landscape.
Creativity beyond the classroom
Working together with Martha Ellis, students designed artwork that celebrates Berwick, its community and its creative spirit. Their designs now wrap the Quayside Huts, creating a colourful new identity for the much-loved retail units and providing a lasting piece of public art for residents and visitors to enjoy.
The project builds on the success of the students’ end-of-residency exhibition, extending its impact beyond the gallery and into the heart of the town. It demonstrates how creative opportunities can empower young people to shape the places they live while leaving a lasting legacy for the wider community.
Supporting local businesses and celebrating place
The Quayside Huts are home to many of Berwick’s independent businesses, makers and artists. Their new appearance not only brightens one of the town’s busiest waterfront locations but also celebrates the creativity that exists throughout Berwick.
Martha Ellis said:
“Working with the students over the past year has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Watching them develop confidence in their creativity and seeing their ideas become part of the town’s landscape is a wonderful way to conclude the residency. I hope the huts become something the whole community feels proud of.”
The project was delivered in partnership with Berwick Town Council, whose support helped bring the students’ creative vision to life.
Mayor of Berwick, Cllr Jane Turton, said:
“The Quayside Huts are an important part of Berwick’s waterfront, supporting local businesses and welcoming visitors throughout the year. This collaboration has given them a new lease of life while celebrating the creativity of our young people. It’s a fantastic example of what can be achieved when schools, artists and local organisations work together.”
A lasting legacy
The residency forms part of The Maltings’ wider commitment to connecting young people with high-quality creative opportunities and ensuring that art plays an active role within the community.
By bringing together education, public space and local enterprise, the Quayside Huts project demonstrates how creativity can strengthen communities, inspire young people and create lasting change.
If you’re visiting Berwick’s Quayside this summer, take a moment to explore the newly transformed huts and celebrate the creativity of the young people who have helped leave their mark on the town.