Transform Leith’s Quality Yard “Painting with Pals” Street Art Event
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing your artwork splashed across a wall in bold colour, now’s your chance. As part of this year’s Leith Festival, local artists are being invited to take part in an exciting outdoor mural event: Painting with Pals.
Happening on Friday, 14 June, Painting with Pals is an inclusive, community-driven event hosted by Quality Yard, a creative studio tucked away on Maritime Lane in Leith. The event offers a rare opportunity for both seasoned artists and complete newcomers to collaborate and leave their mark on the studio’s iconic 360° mural.
A Living, Breathing Canvas
The mural that wraps around Quality Yard has been a fixture of the Leith art scene since its launch during the 2018 Leith Festival. What began as a project contained within the studio’s 40-metre inner courtyard has gradually spilled out onto the surrounding doors and boards of Maritime Lane, transforming the area into a vibrant public gallery.
Now, in 2024, the wall is ready for a fresh coat of creativity, and the team at Quality Yard wants you to be part of it.
Painting with Pals: Street Art for Everyone
The name says it all. Painting with Pals encourages artists to apply as pairs, whether you’re two friends looking to experiment with murals, or a seasoned artist teaming up with someone new to the game. All ages and experience levels are welcome.
“This event is about community, creativity, and collaboration,” says David Organ, founder of Quality Yard. “It’s as much for professional painters as it is for people who just want to give large-scale artwork a go for the first time.”
The event serves as a kind of “unofficial street art festival,” inviting participating duos to each take on a section of Quality Yard’s 18th-century wall. All walls will be prepped with a neutral grey background, and artists will have access to basic emulsion paints and a limited range of spray paints to bring their vision to life.
A Platform for Local Talent
While past editions of Painting with Pals have spotlighted women and LGBT+ artists, this year the focus shifts to highlighting local talent from Leith and Edinburgh.
“I’ve seen what’s happening with the street art scene in Glasgow—especially at the Yardworks Festival,” says David. “There’s incredible energy there, and I’d love to see more of that spirit here in Leith. This is about giving local artists a space to shine.”
That said, the event remains rooted in inclusivity. As a Scottish LGBTI+ Rainbow Mark Venue, Quality Yard is committed to maintaining a safe, welcoming space for all creatives. The open call process is a deliberate effort to make the opportunity as accessible and diverse as possible.
How to Apply
If you’re interested in being part of this vibrant community event, it’s simple to apply. Artists can reach out via email at ar*********@************co.uk or send a direct message to @quality_yard on Instagram.
You’ll need to include some examples of your artwork, whether that’s a link to your Instagram profile, personal website, or JPEGs sent via email. Don’t worry about scale; mural experience isn’t necessary. What matters most is your enthusiasm and your willingness to collaborate.
Why You Should Join
Beyond the chance to display your art in a high-profile, public-facing location, Painting with Pals is an invitation to connect, with other artists, with the local community, and with the growing street art culture in Edinburgh.
This is a chance to be part of something lasting, vibrant, and meaningful. Whether you’ve been painting for decades or just picked up your first brush, this event is about bringing people together through creativity.
So, grab a friend, gather your ideas, and get ready to paint. The walls of Leith are calling.
Event Details
🖌️ Painting with Pals
📍 Quality Yard, Maritime Lane, Leith
📅 Friday, 14 June 2024
🎨 Supplies provided: basic emulsion & limited spray paint
👥 Apply as a duo (friends, collaborators, mentor/mentee, etc.)
🌈 Safe, inclusive environment for artists of all backgrounds
To Apply:
📧 ar*********@************co.uk
📸 Instagram: @quality_yard
Let your creativity loose on Leith’s most colourful wall, apply now and be part of the mural magic.
