Manchester is welcoming one of the world’s most celebrated living artists as David Hockney’s blockbuster show Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away) opens today at Aviva Studios. Running from December 10, 2024, to January 25, 2025, we're offered a rare chance to experience 60 years of Hockney’s creativity like never before, now in the North!
Fans of Hockney will likely have made their way to Salts Mill, but after a hugely popular run at London’s Lightroom, this production transforms the vast spaces of Aviva Studios into a vibrant showcase of Hockney’s art. The show invites visitors into his world through six themed chapters, featuring famous works, hidden gems, and brand-new pieces. His own voice guides you through it all, paired with an original score by Nico Muhly and direction by Mark Grimmer of 59 Studio.
Expect to see Hockney experimenting with perspective, creating polaroid collages that capture time, and exploring the joys of spring with his iPad. His bold Grand Canyon paintings remind us why some things just can’t be captured by a camera. From Los Angeles to Yorkshire and Normandy, his immersive journey celebrates the artist’s endless curiosity and innovation.
“I’m very happy that my exhibition is going to Factory International in Manchester and that more people in the UK will be able to see my pictures bigger & closer than before. LOVE LIFE DH,” Hockney said.
Tickets start at £20, with affordable options, including £10 tickets for Manchester residents. Children under two go free. You can book now at factoryinternational.org
Event Details:
Factory International’s Aviva Studios is known for its flexible spaces and ambitious programming, making it the perfect home for Hockney’s immersive show. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering his work for the first time, this exhibition promises a memorable experience for all.
