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Visual Arts at MIF25

Maja Lorkowska, Exhibitions Editor

Visual arts have always been a core element of Manchester International Festival, with unique exhibitions that push the boundaries of how art can be displayed and encountered. MIF25 returns with artists as storytellers, sharing ancient knowledge, looking into the future or revealing the secrets of their studios, all the while seeking a deep connection with their viewers.

Indigenous wisdom is generously shared by Santiago Yahuarcani in The Beginning of Knowledge, while FALE SĀ / SACRED HOUSE combines cultural ceremony and digital art.

Shilpa Gupta considers the importance of language and experiences gathered along the way in shaping our identities in You are the place. Venture Arts‘ pop up studio allows us a peek into the studio of artist Michael Beard alongside others while An Inheritance sees local school children create time capsules to be opened in 100 years’ time, in a display as considered as it is moving.

 

Our top picks

MIF25: Santiago Yahuarcani – The Beginning of Knowledge at the Whitworth

Santiago Yahuarcani: The Beginning of Knowledge at The Whitworth, Manchester, Until 4 January 2026, Free entry - Visit now

Yahuarcani’s paintings present visions of the natural world haunted by troubled human history and the importance of spiritual lessons that we’re yet to learn – this magical exhibition is not t0 be missed.

Find out more
Colorful artwork showing dolphins and mermaids swimming together in a rich blue ocean.
Santiago Yahuarcani, Sin título (Untitled) 2021, natural pigments and acrylic on llanchama, 60 x 87 cm. © Santiago Yahuarcani. Photo: CRISIS Galler

Seasonal Guides

Christmas food and drink

The holidays are coming – time to eat, drink and be merry for Christmas 2025.

Festive Happening Camerata
Christmas Theatre and Concerts

As the big day approaches, you can count on theatres and concert halls across the North to pull out all the festive stops.
Champagne flute swirling in front of a Christmas tree.
Christmas in the North

If you’re looking for alternative or interesting things to do over Christmas in Manchester and the North, look no further.
New Year’s Eve in the North

We’ve rounded up some of the city’s best options for seeing out 2025 in style – from wallet-friendly parties to some truly lavish experiences.
A smiling market trader shows a customer a painting in Victoria Baths
Christmas Shopping in the North

Back away from the high street and support some of Manchester’s best independent makers, sellers and curators this Christmas.
Visit Blackpool.
Christmas Markets in the North

Makers, bakers and curators will be out in force this festive season as the North’s best Christmas Markets whirr into action.
Creepy capers across Manchester and the North for little and big ghosts with the most.
Halloween in Manchester and the North

As Halloween approaches read our guide to the creepy capers happening for little and big ghosts with the most.

Destinations

Image by Jonathan Schofield.
Spotlight on

Walking Tours in Manchester by Jonathan Schofield

Presenting the best walking tours in Manchester for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to scratch beneath the surface of the city.

Take me there

Culture Guides

Sepia image of a courtroom with the words 'Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird’
Theatre in the North

Winter brings a huge haul of seasonal shows, as well as productions that resolutely veer away from the fairy lights.

Music in the North

Manchester’s closing out the year – and looking to the new one – with a run of gigs from some of the country’s best underground exports.

A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night
Cinema in the North

There's no shortage of great films out at the moment, whether you're looking for the latest blockbuster, that hot arthouse flick fresh from Cannes or a cosy classic.

A white mattress is burning in a black rocky landscape.
Exhibitions in the North

In galleries around the North this autumn, you'll find tactile sculptures, Treasures with a capital 'T' and plant magic.

Food and Drink in the North

Hear ye, hear ye. Take some eating-out tips from our wintertime guide to food and drink in Manchester and the North.