Featured Image for PUBLIC ART COMMISSION 2026 – ARTIST CALL

PUBLIC ART COMMISSION 2026 – ARTIST CALL

Published on 23 February 2026

PUBLIC ART COMMISSION BELFAST GRAND CENTRAL STATION 2026

Community Sculpture Garden at Saltwater Square, Belfast Grand Central Station

Golden Thread Gallery, in partnership with Translink and Arts and Business NI, is inviting artist applications for an exciting new Community Sculpture Garden at Saltwater Square, the new civic space and gateway to the iconic new Belfast Grand Central Station.

Set to be one of the flagship public spaces within the city, Saltwater Square will be a vibrant place where commuters, visitors, local residents and workers can pause, connect, reflect and enjoy moments of creativity in the heart of the city. The new Sculpture Garden will become a key focal point within this space, celebrating artistic talent and creating memorable encounters for thousands of people each day.

The Community Sculpture Garden will feature three new sculptural works. This is a unique opportunity for artists working in Northern Ireland to create public artworks that will help shape the identity of this major new civic gateway.

Translink is committed to delivering an ambitious Arts & Heritage Strategy for Grand Central Station, one that enhances quality of life, celebrates diversity, and reflects the spirit, stories and shared future of Belfast. Public art will play a central role in defining Saltwater Square as an inclusive, welcoming and inspiring space that champions creativity and supports the social and cultural regeneration of the city.

Golden Thread Gallery will lead and manage the commissioning process in partnership with Translink and Arts & Business NI.

How to Apply

This commission will follow up to a two‑stage process, beginning with an open competition for up to five artists or artist teams with suitable experience in delivering sculptural work.

Deadline for submissions: 5pm, Wednesday 25 March 2026
(Late or incomplete submissions cannot be accepted.)

To request the full application guidance, submission requirements and details of the selection process, please email: development@goldenthreadgallery.co.uk

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23-29 Queen Street,
Belfast,
County Antrim,
BT1 6EA.

+44 (0)28 90 330920

info@gtgallery.co.uk

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Tuesday 11:00 – 17:00
Wednesday 11:00 – 17:00
Thursday 11:00 – 17:00
Friday 11:00 – 17:00
Saturday 11:00 – 16:00
Sunday Closed

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