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Futureworks is proud to be in Manchester, the UK’s most creative city. Our Art and design degree courses specialise in developing talented, skilled, and employable graduates to fulfil the needs of the UK’s thriving creative industry. So, we know our stuff when it comes to art and design and Manchester.
Our city has several diverse art and design venues and communities, including galleries, museums, street art, meeting places, collectives, markets, workshops, and more. There are numerous ways to engage with and immerse yourself in the creative arts in Manchester.
- The Whitworth
From historic exhibitions to contemporary commissions, via indoor and outdoor events designed for families, art lovers, and those who want to learn more – the Whitworth is one of northern England’s most remarkable and respected galleries.
Find out what’s on at the Whitworth
- Manchester Craft and Design Centre (MCAD)
MCAD is Manchester’s space for craft, making and community.
MCAD expands on the definition and relevance of craft for everyone by promoting craft in all its forms. They nurture and develop emerging and established talent, support viable creative careers, and showcase innovative and ambitious craft practices.
MCAD is also a place of enterprise, production, and creativity. It reflects the rich diversity of its 21st-century communities, welcoming everyone to experience and engage with making and its vibrant, creative community.
- Islington Mill
Always a vibrant and resourceful cross-disciplinary creative network, Islington Mill is a space where conversations lead to connections, collaboration, and co-creation. Over the years, their collaborative exploratory style has made their studios a focal point for the northwest’s arts community, as well as visiting international artists and exchanges.
The ground-floor event spaces at Islington Mill are run by Partisan Collective and Mirage Bar. Partisan Collective provides an inclusive, accessible, not-for-profit platform and space in Greater Manchester where people can meet, share, learn, create, perform, and dance together. They host a variety of groups and activities, club nights, gigs, crafts, activist meetups, and classes.
- Aviva Studios
Don’t expect a run-of-the-mill programme at Aviva Studios. Priding itself on mixing broad and diverse artists with varied art genres, Aviva is a zeitgeist for Manchester’s innovative, creative spirit.
A hive of invention and discovery, Aviva produces a year-round programme of the world’s best new dance, theatre, music, visual and performance arts and digital commissions in this landmark and highly unique space.
With roots firmly planted and growing in the UK’s most creative city, they invite communities from Manchester and beyond to meet, exchange ideas, learn new skills and have their say — supporting future artists, makers, doers and thinkers to reach their full potential.
5 The Creative Society Manchester
Exciting, original art, craft and well-being workshops operated by practising local artists.
Join the Creative Society Manchester for friendly and accessible art workshops, where you’ll unleash your creative potential in a relaxed and supportive environment. In addition to fostering creativity, the Creative Society often incorporates elements of well-being and mindfulness into its workshops, which enhance relaxation, promote positivity, and are designed to improve overall wellness.
Taking part in spaces across Manchester, within the city’s best-loved venues, the Creative Society collaborates with local businesses and organisations to host pop-up classes that bring people together helping promote better well-being and artist talent.
Experience art and well-being like never before
So, what are you waiting for? Go and enjoy the most creative city in the UK!
Would you love to express yourself with an art & design degree at Futureworks? With degree courses in digital animation with illustration, game art and games design we can help you hone your artistic talent and imbue you with the skills and knowledge required for a lifelong and rewarding career within the thriving, global creative industries.
Interested? Take a look at our School of Art & Design, book on one of our Open Days or contact us to learn more.