Manchester’s Gay Village Art Project Opens for Submissions
Time to make your mark on our Gay Village
A major new community led art project is set to transform one of the gateways into Manchester’s Gay Village, and local LGBTQIA+ artists are being invited to help shape it.
The project will see new artwork installed on the heritage bridge on Sackville Street, creating a bold and vibrant welcome into the Village while celebrating Manchester’s LGBTQIA+ history, culture and community.
The bridge sits between Canal Street and Sackville Gardens and is seen as a key focal point for visitors entering the area. Organisers are looking for creative proposals that bring colour, identity and meaning to the space.
The commission is being led by representatives from across the local LGBTQIA+ community, including Friends of Sackville Gardens, Friends of Manchester’s Gay Village, The Village Licensed Business Association and LGBT Foundation, with support from Manchester City Council.
This forms part of wider work under Manchester’s Gay Village Action Plan and aims to strengthen the identity, visibility and public realm of the Village.
What organisers are looking for
The primary vision for the bridge is an interpretation of the Progress Pride Flag alongside a celebration of Manchester’s LGBTQIA+ community and history on the bridge’s metal panels.
Artists are encouraged to think creatively and develop unique interpretations that capture the spirit, diversity and energy of the Village while also respecting the bridge’s heritage features, including the central plaque.
There is also a potential second opportunity involving the brick wall space between Canal Street and Sackville Gardens. Organisers are open to proposals for either:
- One connected artistic theme across both locations
- Two separate and distinct artworks
Ideas already suggested for the second location include a mural celebrating the Village Angels, though artists are encouraged to put forward their own vision for what the space could become.
Who can apply
The project is specifically seeking local LGBTQIA+ artists or artist teams with ideas that reflect the community and the significance of Manchester’s Gay Village.
Because this is a community backed project, artists are asked to consider the scale and cost of proposals carefully.
How to apply
Artists interested in submitting ideas should contact:
Please use the subject line: Sackville Bridge Artwork
The deadline for submissions is:
Friday 22nd May