Saltaire Arts Trail

Image by Karol Wyszynski

Running over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend from Saturday 4 – Monday 6 May, the annual Saltaire Arts Trail - run by arts charity Saltaire Inspired - brings the UK’s finest artists, makers and designers to the unique spaces of Saltaire and Shipley, showcasing the work of over 150 artists across a busy 3-day programme of events for all ages.

The Open Village will show a range of eclectic and inspiring contemporary artwork by over 35 artists selected by guest curators from across the UK, in the village’s unique buildings, including homes, businesses and creative spaces. Open across all three days, entry is free and many of the artists will be present over the weekend to talk to visitors about their work.

On Saturday 4 May, 21 Bradford-based creatives will take part in MAKE IT Bradford, a one-day pop-up market in Shipley College’s Salt Building. This new event has been created to celebrate and showcase the fabulous art, craft and design talent found right here in Bradford, and entry is free to all.

Back at the stunning Victoria Hall, the ever-popular Saltaire Makers Fair takes place on Sunday 5 & Monday 6 May. Featuring over 70 exhibitors chosen for their originality and quality in a showcase of fresh, contemporary handmade art, craft and design for sale or commission. Browse and buy hand-crafted jewellery, ceramics, textiles, homewares and more. Entry is £3 (under 16s free).

A busy programme of exhibitions includes a new exhibition by The People Powered Press in the roof space at Salts Mill; Connections: People and Place, a textile installation at the United Reformed Church by students from the FdA Textiles Practice course at Bradford College; and a new multimedia installation and two contemporary textile commissions as part of 509 Arts’ Lost Mills and Ghost Mansions project, in the roof space at Salts Mill.

For visitors of all ages who are inspired to get creative, there are plenty of opportunities across the weekend with artist demonstrations and artist-led drop-in activities for all ages and interests.

Information on the full programme can be found at saltaireinspired.org.uk and trail guides are available to buy for £3 at outlets in Saltaire and online, as well as throughout the Arts Trail weekend.