Public Art Commission – Sheepscar Beck, Leeds

Mafwa Theatre, in partnership with Leeds City Council Flood Alleviation Team, is seeking an artist with an established track record of creating engaging public artworks with a commitment to site-responsive, community-led work.

The commission is located at Sheepscar Beck, Mabgate, Leeds.

Sheepscar Beck is a key part of the city’s flood alleviation infrastructure. Recent works have created a new public space, and this commission forms part of a wider programme to raise awareness of climate resilience, ecology and place through engagement with local communities.

The selected artist will create a piece of interpretive public art using metal panels integrated into the fencing along the site. The work should be visually engaging from a distance while also rewarding closer inspection, encouraging people to engage with the Beck and understand its role in preventing flooding.

The artwork will be co-created with local residents and businesses through a series of workshops.

The commission includes:
– Delivery of four community workshops
– Design development of the final artwork
– Collaboration with Mafwa Theatre, Leeds City Council and an appointed fabricator
– Production and installation of a permanent outdoor artwork

The final work will be subject to approval by Leeds City Council’s Principal Designer to ensure safety and suitability for long-term public installation.

Fee & Budget:
– Artist fee: £4,550
– Production budget: £15,000

Timeline:
– Community workshops: July – September 2026
– Design development: September – November 2026
– Fabrication & installation: January 2027
– Public launch: March 2027