Liverpool Biennial 2025 – BEDROCK

There is a quiet buzz in Liverpool that’s gradually getting louder because the most exciting event in the North’s art calendar is almost here! Liverpool Biennial 2025 returns in June, with a brand new theme and a whole host of fantastic artists. 

Curated by Marie-Anne McQuay, the theme for the 13th edition of Liverpool Biennial is ‘BEDROCK’. While last year’s edition highlighted ancestral wisdom from around the world, this year the festival focuses on themes closer to home. Liverpool’s distinctive geography takes centre stage and will act as a starting point for many of the works: in literal terms, this refers to the sandstone which spans the city region and is present in a lot of the local architecture. More conceptually ‘bedrock’ also relates to the social foundations of the city and those personal to the artists, with family, cultural heritage and generational issues all being addressed through the works.

Taking place over 14 weeks, you’ll find art in traditional venues like the Walker Art Gallery and FACT as well as more unexpected locations like the SEVENSTORE designer clothing store in the Baltic, Princes Dock and even a pharmacy(!).

The festival features 30 artists and collectives from around the world, including Mounira Al Solh, Katarzyna Perlak and Sheila Hicks.

It’s always good to try to see as many different exhibitions as you can manage because the Biennial is the perfect place to discover new artists and stumble upon something you’d never usually see.

There are, of course, some instant highlights too: iconic textile artist Sheila Hicks’ work at Tate Liverpool x RIBA North; Isabel Nolan’s large-scale pieces that explode with colour in any medium they appear in; and the delicate works of Maria Loizidou in the glorious setting of the Anglican Cathedral. 

The UK’s oldest art festival promises captivating art experiences, making Liverpool the ultimate destination this summer. Don’t miss it.

If you’re looking for a place to stay to really make the most out of your visit to Liverpool, check out our guide to hotels and hostels in the city.

Please note: all exhibitions are open Wednesday to Saturday, with public artworks open and accessible throughout the festival. Please check individual exhibition pages for specific opening times as some venues are open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Sundays. Keep an eye on the website too for information and booking details for workshops, talks and other events.