A project for Bradford's 2025 City of Culture, 'Draw!', has seen over 6,000 people across the district submit artwork, profoundly influenced by the enduring legacy of local artistic icon David Hockney. The initiative, which encouraged residents to engage with art through drawing, highlighted Hockney's belief that creativity should be accessible to all.
The project began with a simple prompt from Hockney himself: "draw something you think is beautiful." This invitation resonated widely, drawing participants from all walks of life to community art sessions and online platforms throughout the year. The sheer volume of submissions underscores the powerful connection people feel to Hockney and his artistic philosophy.
For many, Hockney's influence extended beyond a mere suggestion. Bradford artist Jason Wilsher-Mills, for instance, credits Hockney with revitalising his career. After a disability made large-scale painting challenging, Wilsher-Mills found new inspiration in Hockney's experimentation with iPad drawing, prompting him to adopt the technology himself. "Thank you, David Hockney, for changing my life, from one Yorkshireman to another," Wilsher-Mills stated.
Workshop facilitator Nicola Storr observed how Hockney's mantra, 'look, look and look again,' encouraged participants to observe their surroundings more closely. She noted that many individuals, initially expressing doubts about their drawing abilities, gained confidence knowing the project was associated with Hockney. "It was like having an art teacher watching over you," Storr remarked, adding that Hockney's pride in his Bradford roots fostered a deep connection with the community.
Alison McIntyre, an artist, curator, and creative producer involved with the Art Doctors project, further emphasised Hockney's commitment to accessibility. She explained that Hockney was "really passionate about drawing being something that should be part of everybody's life," prioritising the process of creation over a perfect end product. This liberating message permeated the 'Draw!' sessions, allowing participants to embrace their creativity without fear of judgment. The project served as a powerful testament to Hockney's enduring impact, reinforcing his status as a "people's artist" who continually challenged conventional notions of art and its audience.