Exhibition

The Manchester Contemporary 2026

An artwork by Venture Arts artist Maureen Callaghan using acrylic markers on canvas. The artwork features three figures who look almost identical - they have stripy green and red hair, and green and red spots on their clothes.

A gel print by Venture Arts studio artist Shannon Ratcliffe depicting an abstract face with blue eyes, a red nose, yellow mouth and pink hair.

We’re heading back to The Manchester Contemporary this November, bringing an exciting selection of work by Venture Arts artists to one of the highlights of Manchester’s contemporary art calendar.

Returning to Manchester Central, the fair brings together independent galleries, artist-led spaces and creative organisations from across the UK and beyond.

This year, we’re delighted to be sharing our stand with artists from Special Arts in Seoul, South Korea, showcasing original artwork by artists from both organisations.

The collaboration began with REPOSTER, a creative exchange that saw Venture Arts artists respond to artworks sent from Korea, experimenting with painting, drawing, collage and printmaking. A brilliant way to break the ice, share ideas and build creative connections across continents.

And the exchange doesn’t stop in Manchester. At the same time as Manchester Contemporary, original work by artists from both organisations will also be exhibited at Art Nomad in Korea, bringing their creative practices to audiences thousands of miles apart.

Tickets are available from the Manchester Contemporary website.