Southend City Jam to return as artist applications open

Southend City Jam will take place from Friday, August 28, to Sunday, August 30, bringing large-scale murals, live painting and creative activity to the city centre and seafront.

Now entering its fifth year, the event has grown into one of Southend’s standout cultural festivals, transforming walls and public spaces into a vibrant open-air gallery.

Thousands of residents and visitors attend each year, watching artists at work and exploring new artworks across the city.

Wow – Colourful artwork across the city (Image: Southend Council)

Applications are now open for artists from Southend, across the UK and internationally to take part in the 2026 festival.

Aida Esposito, director of culture, leisure, music and tourism at Southend Council, said: “Southend City Jam has become a hugely important part of our cultural calendar and a real point of pride for the city.

“Over the last five years it’s helped transform public spaces, attract visitors and celebrate Southend as a place of creativity and culture.

Incredible – Dan Kitchener adding the finishing touches to his piece (Image: JulieAnn)

“We’re delighted to see the festival return in 2026 and would encourage artists from near and far to apply to be part of it.”

The event is organised by Southend Council in partnership with festival co-founders Karl Sims and Steve Hart.

Southend City Jam has already helped establish more than 100 permanent street art walls, creating a lasting legacy that continues well beyond the festival weekend.

Art – Aquatic themed mural by the Pier Hill lifts (Image: Tim Wells)

Co-founders Karl Sims and Steve Hart said the festival has grown beyond expectations since its launch.

They added: “What started as an ambitious idea to make Southend a leading destination for urban art has grown into a major celebration of creativity, bringing together a global community of artists over three jam-packed days.

“We’re thrilled to return for the fifth edition and to open applications for artists who want to help shape this year’s event.”

Colour – Artists painted spots across the city (Image: Tim Wells)

The festival showcases a mix of local, national and international talent, while encouraging public engagement with art in everyday spaces.

Artist applications and further information about Southend City Jam 2026 can be found at www.southendcityjam.co.uk/apply.