DRAW! Project Showcases Public Artworks Across Northern Cities

Community artwork inspired by David Hockney displayed nationwide

The DRAW! project, a year-long nationwide drawing initiative linked to Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, has concluded with a public exhibition of artworks. Supported by Bradford-born artist David Hockney, the project invited people from across the UK to submit drawings monthly throughout 2025. Selected pieces are now on display at various public locations including train stations, bus stops and shopping centres in cities such as Bradford, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool and Manchester.

Project overview and participating artists

DRAW! featured twelve artists who each selected a theme every month to inspire submissions. The artists involved were:

• Adébayo Bolaji
• Rose Blake
• Phoebe Boswell
• Faiza Butt
• Gent 48
• Harry Hill
• David Hockney
• Kate Jackson
• Morag Myerscough
• Dame Zandra Rhodes
• Johnny Vegas
• Jason Wilsher-Mills

Throughout the year, hundreds of drawings were submitted by people of all ages, using a variety of media such as pen, pencil, paintbrush and digital devices. The project encouraged participants to reflect on their everyday lives through drawing.

Mental health and community engagement

Supported by Bradford District and Craven Mind, the project aimed to promote everyday creativity as beneficial for positive mental health. Helen Davey, CEO of Bradford District and Craven Mind, highlighted the role of drawing in supporting wellbeing by helping people slow down, express emotions and feel connected.

Contributors ranged widely in age. For example, Savannah, aged 9, expressed pride that her drawing was displayed publicly and hoped it would bring smiles to viewers. Tim, aged 70, described drawing as a way to lose track of time and explore new perspectives, emphasising that drawing is accessible at any age.

Viewing the artworks

The displayed artworks can be seen at various public transport and shopping locations across northern England. Additionally, a selection of the drawings is available to view on the Bradford 2025 website.

For more information, including films with the participating artists and galleries of the submitted artworks, visit bradford2025.co.uk/draw.

Source: Bradford 2025