Ulster University’s Belfast School of Art, in partnership with Translink, has announced an exciting public art commission competition that will see one student’s work permanently displayed inside Belfast Grand Central Station – the largest integrated transport hub on the island of Ireland.
Chris Conway, Group Chief Executive of Translink, said:
“Everyday, Belfast Grand Central Station brings thousands of people together — for work, study, leisure and family life. This partnership with the Belfast School of Art invites students to leave a lasting creative mark on the station. Public art has the power to inspire communities and transform everyday journeys, and we’re excited to see how students take on that challenge.”
The initiative invites second-year Fine Art students to design a major new artwork that reflects themes of connectivity, regeneration, and civic identity, aligning with Ulster University’s People, Place, Partnership strategy and Translink’s Better.Connected vision.
Brian Dixon, Head of Belfast School of Art, said:
“For our students, this competition is about more than creating artwork — it’s about understanding how art can live in a major civic space and connect with people’s daily lives. The chance to design for Belfast Grand Central Station, where millions of people will pass through each year, is a unique experience that will shape their confidence, creativity and professional practice for years to come.”
The winning student will receive an artist fee and a materials budget, with professional support to bring their concept to life. The artwork will then be installed in a prominent location at Belfast Grand Central Station from April 2026, where it will be seen by thousands of passengers every day.
Opened in September 2024, Belfast Grand Central Station is a striking architectural landmark at the heart of the Weavers Cross regeneration project. Designed to accommodate up to 20 million passenger journeys annually, the station’s soaring concourse, sawtooth roof and illuminated façade make it one of Northern Ireland’s most significant public buildings — and an inspiring backdrop for art.
Student proposals will be judged on artistic quality, originality, and relevance to the themes of connectivity, sustainability, and public engagement. All shortlisted entries will be displayed in a public exhibition at Belfast Grand Central Station in December 2025, before the winning commission is selected.
Applications are open to second-year Fine Art students at Belfast School of Art. Full submission guidelines and details are available from project leads Ralf Sander and Majella Clancy.
