The call has gone out for volunteers to join a “passionate, creative and enthusiastic” army that will help make Nuart Aberdeen 2026 the most vibrant yet, say organisers.
To add even more sparkle to the return of the Scotland’s national street festival, Finnies, the family jeweller based on George Street, has come on board as a supporting partner for the world-acclaimed event.
Both announcements come as the team behind Nuart Aberdeen, delivered by Aberdeen Inspired in partnership with Aberdeen City Council, gear up for the festival bursting into glorious life from April 22 to 26.
Key to the preparations – and the success of Nuart Aberdeen – is the army of volunteers needed to make it happen, said Honor Cargill, the festival’s volunteer manager.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of Nuart Aberdeen,” she said. “From assisting world-class artists to driving, event support, and production, every role is crucial. Without volunteers, there’s no festival—so let’s make magic together,” she said.
Those stepping forward could also support Nuart Aberdeen’s new and extensive education strand involving school pupils from across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. This involves children contributing their own art works to be part of the festival.
There will also be a chance to join production crews, where volunteers can roll up their sleeves and help bring street art to life, said Honor, adding people from all walks of life will be welcome to take part.
“We create dynamic schedules for our volunteers so they can try their hand at more than one role and get a well-rounded experience at the festival,” said Honor.
“We never leave volunteers on their own, we always ensure pairs or more! So you will be meeting new acquaintances throughout!”
As well as helping Nuart Aberdeen transform the city centre – this year on a theme of “Poetry Is In The Streets” – volunteers will get so much out of their role, said Honor.
“That includes a good time! We pride ourselves at Nuart on our level of returning volunteers each year, this reflects to us the community we have created not only with the festival but with the run up to the festival.”
Volunteers also get free entry to selected events, a festival T-shirt, food and drink when they are working, valuable experience, the chance to make new friends and even get work references if they want.
Honor said: “The Nuart family spreads from Aberdeen and beyond, this is really a place for like-minded individuals interested within the creative industries. We really do see volunteers returning year on year due to the amazing experience they’ve had previously volunteering with us. We want to help volunteers gain valuable experience and insight which they can find beneficial for personal or professional development.”
The call out for volunteers, who must be 18 and over, is now open and will run until April 5.
Meanwhile, Dominique Dawson, Director of Finnies, said the iconic Granite City business was thrilled to join the Nuart Aberdeen team as a supporting partner for the festival.
She said: “We are delighted to be part of Nuart Aberdeen this year to help bring back a festival that creates real excitement and optimism around the city and puts Aberdeen back on the map for all the right reasons.
“With a focus this year on education and community it was an easy decision to become involved because as a family business we know from experience that both of these ingredients are essential when planning for a positive future.
“Our team are looking forward to being involved and we encourage everyone to visit the city and discover not only the artworks but also all the other attractions, businesses and activities the city has to offer.”
Kate Timperley, Aberdeen Inspired’s project manager for Nuart Aberdeen, welcomed Finnies’ valuable role in Nuart Aberdeen – and also urged people to sign up as volunteers.
“Finnies is an absolute Granite City institution and for them to choose to be part of Nuart Aberdeen can only add to the kudos and reputation of what has already been hailed as one of the top six street art festivals in the world,” said Kate.
“I have no doubt that Dominique and the team at Finnies will add an extra layer of sparkle to the event.
“Also vital to the success of Nuart Aberdeen are the volunteers who so willing muck in and make the event happen. It is no exaggeration that without the volunteers there would be no Nuart Aberrdeen.”
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said there was a growing sense of anticipation in the city about the return of the street art festival next month.
“We know that people enjoy not just the vibrant atmosphere of the festival weekend, but also look forward to seeing the transformation on walls and spaces, large and small, across Aberdeen.
“They come into the city centre to enjoy Nuart Aberdeen but also keep coming back all year round to take in the great legacy left by this wonderful event.”
You can find out more about Nuart Aberdeen, including how to volunteer, at the Aberdeen Inspired website.