Southend’s iconic pier is set to be transformed into a vibrant landmark full of creativity as a street art festival returns to the city.

City Jam will get under way on Friday for three days as the streets of Southend are filled with colourful and bright artwork.Example - One of the previous Southend City Jam artwork piecesExample - One of the previous Southend City Jam artwork pieces (Image: Southend Council)

Last year’s event saw more than 200 artists from all over the UK and across Europe take part.
Murals, street art, and impressive paintings were plastered across the sides of buildings in the city centre and along the seafront.

This year, Southend Pier will also join in with the festival and is set to host an exciting line-up of activities, sponsored by Southend Pier’s Offshore Bar and Restaurant.

They include the introduction of The Mural Maze, an interactive experience located at the start of the pier.

Big- The spectacular six-metre cubeBig- The spectacular six-metre cube (Image: Southend Council)

This maze allows visitors to explore the creative mind of British-American graffiti artist Tizer through a series of dynamic artworks.

At the end of the pier, four renowned street artists will collaborate on a massive six-metre cube, each side featuring a unique design that reflects the individual styles and visions of the artists involved.

Exciting - Painting the Mural Maze in SouthendExciting - Painting the Mural Maze in Southend (Image: Southend Council)

Matt Dent, councillor responsible for culture, tourism, and business, said: “We are thrilled to bring the Southend City Jam a mile and a third out to sea, thanks to the generous sponsorship from Offshore Bar and Restaurant.

“Southend Pier is the jewel in Southend’s crown, and it’s exciting to combine this historic venue with a modern street art event.

“It is a definite highlight in Southend’s vibrant events calendar.”

Wow - Mural Maze in progress on the pierWow - Mural Maze in progress on the pier (Image: Southend Council)

Visitors and residents alike will have the opportunity to unleash their inner artist by participating in a street art workshop led by City Jam headliner, Tizer.

The workshop is open to all ages and skill levels, offering visitors the chance to create their own street art canvas to take home.

Tickets can be purchased on the day, with the workshop running from 11am to 4pm.