Stunning Nuart Mural in the Running for UK’s Best of 2024
Hera’s Union Point mural in Aberdeen is shortlisted for the Street Art Cities annual awards.
A towering mural of a girl holding a unicorn, created by German artist Hera, has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Now, this striking artwork on Union Point at Aberdeen Harbour is in the running to be named the greatest UK mural of 2024, and the city is rallying behind it.
Described by Hera as a “love letter to Aberdeen and Scotland,” the mural is part of a shortlist of nine works competing in the Artist Choice category of the Street Art Cities Best of 2024 Awards. With entries from cities like London, Manchester, and Bristol, it’s a celebration of the creativity and boldness that define street art—and Aberdeen’s masterpiece is holding its own among the UK’s best.
Hera’s artistic style is as unique as the stories she tells through her work. A fusion of her skills as a graffiti artist, illustrator, poet, and storyteller, her pieces blend intricate detail with layers of meaning. The Union Point mural exemplifies this, using striking imagery and emotional depth to connect with viewers and reflect the spirit of Aberdeen and Scotland. This combination of artistry and narrative has made Hera one of the most respected figures in the global street art scene.
The transformational power of Nuart Aberdeen
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired expressed pride in the nomination. “Even as Hera was working on her mural – perched on a cherry-picker 12 floors above the ground – it was clear this was going to become an instant icon of the transformational power of Nuart Aberdeen,” he said. “This wonderful work can be seen from miles around and has already become synonymous with the Granite City, often pictured as the centrepiece of the cityscape.”
The mural’s nomination underscores the global reputation of Nuart Aberdeen, which has previously been recognised as one of the six best street art festivals in the world. Hera’s work joins a legacy of impactful murals created through the festival, including her earlier collaboration with Akut, Because You Are That Light, a beloved piece that once graced the now-demolished Aberdeen Market.
Nuart’s enduring impact on the city’s cultural identity
The Street Art Cities Awards described Hera’s Union Point work as a “towering mural that blends symbolism with emotion and a sense of artistic grandeur.” As Aberdeen Inspired explores plans to bring Nuart back later this year, the nomination highlights the festival’s enduring impact on the city’s cultural identity.
“I would urge as many people as possible to cast their vote for Hera’s work,” Watson added. “It would be a fantastic coup for Aberdeen to be home to the greatest UK mural of 2024.”
Voting for the award is open to the public, and we encourage you to show your support. A win would celebrate Hera’s incredible artistry and solidify Aberdeen’s leading place in the global street art scene. Cast your vote at Inspiring City.
