Itinerary Planner

Hockney-Inspired Artistic Adventures in Bradford

Explore the vibrant world of David Hockney with this fun and creative itinerary. As a renowned artist with connections to Bradford, Hockney's influence is celebrated throughout the city. Visit places where you can see his art and join the Bradford UK City of Culture 2025 DRAW! project to create your own masterpieces.

STAY & EXPLORE

Bradford offers a variety of accommodations, from traditional hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs to more independent options like holiday lodges and serviced apartments.

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MORNING: NATIONAL SCIENCE + MEDIA MUSEUM

Start your visit at the National Science + Media Museum to see the David Hockney: Pieced Together exhibition. This exhibition showcases Hockney's innovative use of film and photography, including his video installation "The Four Seasons: Woldgate Woods" and early 'joiner' photocollages.

Inspiration: Create your own digital or traditional collages inspired by Hockney's works.

CARTWRIGHT HALL | HOCKNEY GALLERY

Hop on a bus to Cartwright Hall Art Gallery in Bradford. This gallery houses a permanent collection of David Hockney's early works, providing insight into his artistic development. Discover artworks that highlight his connection to Yorkshire and Bradford.

Fun fact: Hockney attended Bradford College of Art, where he began to develop his distinctive style.

Inspiration: Draw Your Favourite Thing! Let the radiant colours and dynamic compositions of Hockney's early works inspire you to create your own artwork, drawing from your favourite elements of his art.

LISTER PARK

While at Cartwright Hall, take some time to explore Lister Park. This picturesque park features beautiful gardens, a boating lake, and various sculptures. In the spring, the park is delightful with its carpet of crocuses blooming, creating a colourful display. Additionally, you can enjoy the Mughal Water Garden, which adds to the park's charm and beauty.

AFTERNOON: UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE SALTAIRE

Next, go to Saltaire Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Italianate architecture and rich history. Wander through the village, visit the Saltaire United Reformed Church, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Inspiration: The historic buildings and charming streets of Saltaire provide the perfect backdrop for portrait drawing inspired by the DRAW! project's themes.

SALTS MILL

Discover Salts Mill in Saltaire. This former textile mill is now an art gallery featuring an extensive collection of Hockney's works, including the famous "20 Pictures of Flowers and Bigger Pictures" series. Enjoy the wonderful art, shop for unique items, and grab a bite at one of the on-site cafes.

Inspiration: Draw your favourite flower or a larger-than-life scene, taking inspiration from Hockney's works. Then, find a window with a view and draw what you see, inspired by Rose Blake's April theme.

Join the Bradford 2025 DRAW! project, supported by David Hockney. Each month in 2025, a different artist invites everyone to create a drawing inspired by a specific theme. Here's the schedule so far:

• March: Draw your favourite thing (Jason Wilsher-Mills).
• April: Get inspired by the view from a window (Rose Blake).

Share your drawings on the Bradford 2025 website or social media using #Bradford2025 or by tagging @bradford_2025 for a chance to have your artwork displayed online and in an end-of-year exhibition.

Enjoy your artistic journey through Bradford, inspired by the legendary David Hockney!