Island of Foam: Version #40 at Centenary Square
Kristy Stott, Theatre EditorVisit now
Island of Foam: Version #40
If you want to play in the foam, please wear clothes and footwear you don’t mind getting coloured.
You are strongly advised not to wear suede.
Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.
It’s not every day you see a city square turned into a rainbow-drenched sea of foam. But this August, Bradford’s Centenary Square will get a seriously sudsy makeover thanks to German artist Stephanie Lüning – and everyone’s invited to dive in.
Part of Bradford 2025’s summer programme, Island of Foam: Version #40 is a one-day-only large-scale installation that will flood a familiar part of the city with vibrantly coloured foam. The spectacular creation of Lüning – whose dynamic artworks transform how we see public space – marks the latest in her long-running series, and her first in West Yorkshire. Visually stunning, surreal and joyful, the piece is both playful and participatory.
It’s also the perfect way to celebrate Playday – the UK’s national day for play. From toddlers to teens, grown-ups to grandparents, families of all ages can join in this monumental explosion of multicoloured foam in the heart of Centenary Square, part of City Park.
Appearing at 2:00 pm and again at 4:00 pm, the live installation will erupt across the square in waves of swirling colour. Watch the transformation unfold from the pavement near City Hall – or wait until the artwork is complete, and then, wade in for the full foamy experience.
Free and open to all, Island of Foam: Version #40 is a chance to see Bradford in a whole new light – a joyful, kaleidoscopic reimagining of a civic space. Just bring a towel – and maybe don’t wear your best shoes.
We recommend checking out the FAQs for this event before you visit.
