Middlesbrough, a town grappling with the aftermath of deindustrialisation and significant social challenges, is experiencing an unexpected cultural renaissance, largely driven by the radical arts collective Industrial Coast. Founded in 2018 by Steve Kirby, 58, the label and event promoter has cultivated a distinctive and experimental arts scene that is now garnering national attention.
Industrial Coast distinguishes itself through its unconventional approach to showcasing art. Gigs often take place in unusual spaces, from old shopping units to art galleries, featuring experimental performances such as music created with rusted springs or movement art utilising gardening wires. The collective's marketing strategies are equally unorthodox, including 50p tickets, digital releases priced at £999, and a relaxed attitude towards entry requirements, all designed to foster an inclusive environment for open-minded attendees. Kirby, who initially started the project as a creative outlet from his corporate job, has become a pivotal figure, leveraging savvy social media use to extend the collective's reach far beyond Teesside.
The burgeoning arts scene exists against a backdrop of considerable adversity. Middlesbrough faces significant issues, including high rates of drug use; a recent study revealed it had the highest traces of cocaine in daily wastewater among European cities. Despite these profound social and economic hurdles, the town has developed a robust artistic ecosystem. Alongside Industrial Coast, institutions like The Auxiliary, which organises Sonic Arts Week, and Creative Factory, along with venues such as Cafe Etch and micropub Disgraceland, contribute to this vibrant cultural landscape. The town's MIMA art gallery is set to host the prestigious Turner Prize later this year, further cementing Middlesbrough's growing artistic prominence.
The unique character of Middlesbrough's environment, particularly its distinctive coastal light, serves as a muse for many local artists. Rachel Deakin, a local photographer and collaborator with Industrial Coast, notes that the light 'hits different on this part of the coast,' providing a unique aesthetic inspiration. This local pride and the collective's influence have inspired a new generation of artists, such as 23-year-old musician Wren Adobe, who, despite studying in Manchester, expresses a strong desire to return and contribute to the town's artistic momentum. Adobe asserts that Middlesbrough possesses 'the best art scene in the country,' attributing its 'mercurial' sound and visual art to its 'deprived, dark history.'
The growth of this radical arts movement has also received crucial support, including funding from the Arts Council. This backing has enabled Industrial Coast to stage performances by established artists such as Scott King, Drew McDowall of Coil, and Evicshen, elevating the profile of the local scene. Kirby himself made the significant decision to leave his corporate career to dedicate more time to Industrial Coast, taking on graveyard shifts at Marks & Spencer to facilitate his passion project, supported by his wife. This commitment underscores the deep personal investment driving Middlesbrough's cultural transformation.