BD Walls in Bradford

As Bradford enjoys a year of culture, one of the most noticeable differences to the city may be the ever-growing wealth of street art on every available civic surface. BD Walls is an art gallery that lives within the city. Internationally renowned, big-name street artists are being commissioned to contribute to this evolving exhibition, as well as locally based artists and young graffiti enthusiasts. BD Walls will transform the city with vibrant and poignant murals, establishing Bradford as one of the centres for excellent public art in the country. 

BD Walls launched with The Portal, a striking new work by Polish artist NeSpoon, now visible in Bradford city centre. Inspired by a piece of lace found in the Bradford District Museum and Galleries archive, the artwork explores how lace mirrors natural forms and transcends cultural boundaries. NeSpoon describes lace as both familiar and universal, evoking a sense of homeliness while also being intricately decorative.

Another piece that has already been added to the city’s identity is Roots. Designed and painted by Sheffield-based artist Peachzz, this vibrant mural pays homage to Bradford’s MAPA cultural arts centre. Through kaleidoscopic colouring, the large piece depicts Mikey Roots, a revered local musician, community organiser and businessman. The musician’s soft smile is a subject that perfectly fits Peachzz’s signature style of expressive realism.

As part of BD Walls, highly acclaimed street artists will be teaming up with local emerging artists to collaborate on pieces, giving a huge opportunity to those just starting on their artistic journey. 

New pieces will slowly emerge as the year goes on. Each taking inspiration from local communities, archives, history, and Bradford’s international connections. As a city with so many cultural influences, we can’t wait to see the breadth and scale of work being planned, painted and developed. 

Check out the full programme for Bradford 2025 in this special year for arts in the region.