Whether you were picking up a pencil for the first time or were a seasoned sketcher, this event was all about exploring creativity in new and playful ways. It was free, open to everyone, and packed with opportunities to experiment, create and connect. Attendees could make their mark, try something new, and be part of a joyful, artistic takeover of the space.

Inside The Beacon

• Family Portraits: Creative Flair led a workshop to create a family portrait through guided drawing.
• Collaged Leaves: Katie Shepherd led a creative session exploring collage, doodling and pattern making.
• Zine Making Workshop: Hannah Platt led a workshop where you could make your own mini-magazine/zine.
• Turner Prize Workshop: A creative workshop led by Mussarat inspired by artworks exhibited at the Turner Prize exhibition.

The Beacon Foyer

• Big Creatures: You could design and draw your own imaginative creatures with Storybees.
• Window Painting/Tissue Art: A hands-on, sensory-friendly activity led by Storybees allowing small children to make their mark in a fun, visible way.
• Performative Digital Drawing: Attendees sat for a portrait with Hafsah Nibe, which blended traditional and digital art.

Outdoor Tent

• Textiles Workshop: Zahid Rauf led a hands-on workshop exploring textile design and layering.
• Manga Character Workshop: Nicola Storr taught manga style, character design and storytelling through images.
• Nature Sketching: We observed and captured nature through drawing in this outdoor sketching session with Jake Attree.
• Collaborative Line Walk: Amy Bairstow led a workshop to create a giant collaborative line artwork.

Outside The Beacon

• Big Graffiti Wall: Aimee Grundell led a large scale outdoor graffiti wall workshop for people to add to.

This project was funded by Our Patch.

Our Patch is a year-long arts programme across Bradford in 2025, inviting community groups and residents to design and take part in free workshops, activities and events in their local area. Led by local ‘Our Patch Producers’ alongside artists and makers, the project will bring people together through creative experiences ranging from painting and poetry to dancing, cooking and gardening. Taking place in community halls, libraries, faith spaces and social hubs across Bradford East, Bradford South, Bradford West, Keighley & Ilkley and Shipley, Our Patch celebrates local culture while helping people learn skills, build confidence and make new connections. This is Our Patch.

Our Patch is funded by The Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and The National Lottery Community Fund. We extend our thanks to all players of the National Lottery.