We’re beyond excited to welcome Dominic Wilcox, Sunderland-born artist, inventor, and internationally acclaimed “thinkerupper”. Dominic will be bringing two incredible experiences to the festival:
1. Little Inventors Workshop – children and young people are invited to dream up wild and wonderful ideas to enhance Sunderland’s new Keel Square Bridge and riverbank. A giant cardboard model will sit at the heart of this hands-on workshop, where the young people can add their inventions to help shape a future Sunderland. Come and be part of Dominic’s beloved Little Inventors project, born right here in Sunderland, led by cardboard artist Lottie Smith.
2. The Lost and Found Office of Oddities – step inside a playful, interactive world where imagination rules. This live performance and installation, created with Atlas Theatre Company, invites people of all ages to encounter mysterious “odd” objects and invent stories about what they are and what they do. Let curiosity get the better of you and watch as performers roam the festival grounds, encouraging spontaneous creativity and joyful invention.
Here’s a look at what else is in store:
Art Exhibition: Showcasing a diverse range of artistic styles, mediums, and perspectives under one roof
Art Market: Browse and buy unique art, jewellery, glass items, and crafts from local artists.
Little Inventors | Lottie Smith: Design imaginative inventions for the new Keel Crossing.
Office of Odd | Atlas Theatre: Explore curious objects and spark your creativity.
ARt Frames | Frank Styles & Culture House: Discover a new way to see Sunderland with augmented reality frames.
Imaginarium | art cafe & Culture House: Create a postcard showcasing your Sunderland for our competition.
Tote Bag Printing | Harbour Print: Design and print your own unique tote bag.
Pottery | Thrown Together: Make your own treasured item.
360 Frames | art cafe: Step up to special rotating frames and spin them 360 degrees to discover your perfect view.
Living Statue | Statuesque Physical Arts: Set to spark curiosity and create memorable photo opportunities.
Dance | South Paw Dance: Showcasing some of their dance performances.
Live Music | DJ Jamal: Enjoy music throughout the day.
Ink & Mic | King Ink: A curated lineup of poets takes the stage
Performance Art: See original performance art from local artists.
Button Art | Frasers Wool: Buttons, paper, and imagination!
Live Painting | The Art Room Sunderland: Watch artists at work
Horsing About | Nadine Lucas: Create some super cool horseshoes
Upcycle Frames | art cafe: Decorate cardboard mounts to put your artwork in
Pet Portraits | Peter Hayes: Have your pet painted by Peter.
Lemon Ruse Studios | portrait illustration: Enjoy a creative experience that feels very personal
Art Bank: Donate or pick up free art supplies at the Sunderland Art Bank, helping to support creativity in our community for all ages and skill levels!
This event will inspire creativity in people of all ages and backgrounds.
