The Celebrity Graffiti Gripping Newcastle: Inside the ‘Mellow Birds’ phenomenon
Written by Lucy Harrison on 19th October 2026
Photo credit: @themellowbirds
Areas in West Denton have yet again been covered in graffiti detailing outlandish statements about celebrities.
The bizarre incidents are in relation to an active North East exclusive graffiti group, the ‘Mellow Birds’.
The Instagram group ‘themellowbirds,’ claiming to be behind the grafiti have spoken to Spark Sunderland, taking full responsibility for the graffiti and elaborating on the purpose and meaning behind the art.
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A spokesperson for the group said: “Yes, we can claim ownership of the majority of the graffiti itself. The rationale behind it stems from the area itself, respectfully, being rather neglected in the subways etc. Shoddy paint jobs prior to our involvement. Numerous items of graffiti are scrawled across the walls in the area, a lot of insulting remarks about real life people who live there. So, we thought, why not flip the script and do something somewhat ridiculous, about someone who realistically, won’t care?”
The unique artwork is in aim to bring laughter to people in a time when we need it the most.
“We are aware of the position of those involved and have reached out to the Mayor of Newcastle to state our case. Which essentially is, yes, it’s unorthodox however, the people have enjoyed it, we have spread well needed joy and would like to continue to do so. We don’t make any money off of this, if anything it costs us money. We want to continue because it’s well needed laughter.”
Photo credit: @themellowbirds
Despite the arrest of a 33-year-old man made last week by Northumbria Police, the graffiti continues to make an appearance around the West Denton area.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “On Monday, October 12, we arrested a man on suspicion of criminal damage in relation to graffiti in the West Denton area of Newcastle.
“In interview, the man – aged 33 – admitted carrying out the vandalism and he has now been referred for an out of court disposal.
“Anti-social behaviour of this nature is completely unacceptable, and alongside our partners we will always look to take action when we are made aware of it.”
Instagram: @themellowbirds
