Island of Foam: Version #40 at Centenary Square
Kristy Stott, Theatre EditorVisit now
Island of Foam: Version #40
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.
