Artist Designed Flag Flies Above Castle Keep
A new flag is flying above Newcastle’s medieval Castle Keep, designed by an artist from the city.
The flag has been created by multidisciplinary artist, Mani Kambo, whose work is currently on show at Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead. The flag provides a visual link between the exhibition in Gateshead and the artist’s home city of Newcastle.
“To see my flag waving above Newcastle, my hometown, is an honour and an incredibly unique experience. I love the idea of it bridging two spaces. It creates a link, a shared experience, and I hope it sparks conversations and connections for everyone who sees it,” said Mani Kambo.
Newcastle’s Castle Keep was built in the 12th century and formed part of the city’s defences. Today, the Castle Keep is a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
Visitors can explore the building’s ancient passageways and chambers, and climb the spiral stairs to the roof, which has panoramic views over Newcastle, the River Tyne and Gateshead – including Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art.
The roof also gives a closer view of the new flag, which mirrors some of the imagery people will see in Mani Kambo’s exhibition, called Ax·is Mun·di.
The exhibition includes a new body of work, including textiles, wood engraving and symbolism, which Kambo created during a seven-month residency at Baltic. The work is influenced by superstition, prayer and religious ceremony, and rooted in the artist’s family history within the caste system.
Mani Kambo: Ax·is Mun·di is on show at Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art until 15 June 2025. Admission is free.
