Get ready to be immersed in a weekend of artistic expression like no other – the Festival of Making is back in Blackburn! Celebrating its tenth anniversary, this iconic event transforms the town's rich industrial past into a vibrant creative future. From 4-5 July, Lancashire will be abuzz with live performances, thought-provoking exhibitions, film screenings, and inspiring talks that showcase everything from Northern Soul music to comedian Johnny Vegas's return.
The festival's programme is a veritable feast for the senses, packed with hands-on workshops where attendees can roll up their sleeves and get creative. Expect to see traditional local industries partnering with contemporary artists in 'Art in Manufacturing', an initiative that seeks to put Lancashire's industrial legacy under the spotlight through a modern artistic lens. Meet Alina Akbar, a rising talent from Rochdale who's using sound art to explore how car modification builds culture and identity within working-class communities – her score is influenced by northern bassline.
For multidisciplinary artist Jamie Holman, the festival has been an alchemical force for good in Blackburn. He believes it's helped foster cultural equity without gentrifying the town, instead building new cultural structures that challenge preconceptions of what art and culture should be. It's a grassroots effort that's put the power back into the people – and it shows no signs of slowing down.
The Festival of Making is also an important educational platform that reminds us of Blackburn's proud industrial heritage as the 'weaving capital of the world'. By celebrating its history, while looking to the future, this event is shaping the town's identity for generations to come – and it's not to be missed!