Byker Metro artwork inspired by 1950s Western film posters

An artwork inspired by 1950s Western film posters has gone on display at a metro station.

Stepney Western, at the Byker station, was created by local filmmaker Harry Lawson and explores the culture of young, inner-city horse riders from the Stepney Bank Stables charity.

As part of the project, a documentary film about the local community was also made and will go on show at Newcastle Contemporary Art next month.

Stables centre manager, Sara Newson, said the project had “broadened the horizons” of those who took part.

The film features footage shot by riders on their phones, as well as material from the North East Film Archive and the 2004 CBBC series The Stables.

Stepney Bank Stables provides opportunities for young people to learn how to communicate with and care for horses as well as developing skills such as teamwork.

Ms Newson said: “The young people have been able to explore their creativity in new ways, travel to new places and meet new people, broadening their horizons and opening up new possibilities.”

Mr Lawson said: “The success of an artwork like this relies on the creativity and ambition of so many people.

“Most importantly though, the young people from Stepney provide its energy and lifeforce.”

John Souter, head of customer service operations at Nexus, said: “The finished mural looks amazing and will be seen by thousands of our customers as they pass through the ticket concourse.”