Introduction to Art Projects in Merseyside and the Wirral
Merseyside and the Wirral, with their rich cultural heritage and vibrant communities, have long been celebrated as hubs for artistic innovation and expression. From the historic streets of Liverpool to the coastal beauty of the Wirral, the region is alive with creativity, offering a diverse range of art projects that reflect its unique character and community spirit. Together, they form a dynamic artistic landscape that celebrates tradition while embracing bold, contemporary ideas.
Art across Merseyside and the Wirral extends far beyond traditional galleries and museums. Public spaces, historic landmarks, and even natural environments become stages and canvases for live performances, large-scale installations, and community-driven art projects.
Events like the Liverpool Biennial and LightNight Liverpool attract global attention, while grassroots initiatives such as the and Port Sunlight’s Art on the Green celebrate local talent and engage residents in hands-on creativity. This blend of global and local ensures art is accessible to all, fostering a sense of inclusion and pride.
Over the past decade, the region has seen a renaissance in live art and public engagement, with Merseyside and the Wirral Art hosting projects that range from experimental performances to socially conscious installations. From the bustling streets of Liverpool to the serene coastal paths of the Wirral, these art projects not only entertain but also spark conversations, celebrate shared histories, and explore the challenges of our time. Together, they showcase the region as a place where creativity thrives, inspiring both residents and visitors to see art as a vibrant part of everyday life.
Interactive and Immersive Performances
- Description: A growing trend in live art, interactive performances engage audiences directly, often breaking the traditional performer-spectator boundary. These works blur the line between art and audience experience.
- Examples:
- Punchdrunk Liverpool: Recent pop-up performances in vacant spaces bring narratives alive, allowing audiences to interact with characters.
- Immersive Wirral: Small, community-led initiatives invite participants to co-create art during performances. Take a look at the Art Events in the Wirral area.
Site-Specific Works
- Description: Leveraging the history and character of unique venues, these projects transform non-traditional spaces into stages for live art.
- Examples:
- LightNight Liverpool: Annual one-night festival bringing public spaces to life with light projections, dance, and interactive installations.
- Port Sunlight’s Art on the Green: Live outdoor performances celebrating the heritage of the Wirral village. Learn more about whats on in Port Sunlight.
Street and Public Art Performances
- Description: Public spaces in Liverpool and the Wirral have become canvases for live street art, offering spontaneous encounters with creativity.
- Examples:
- Liverpool Biennial: Incorporates live performances, sound art, and temporary installations across the city.
- Wirral Festival of Firsts: Celebrating local talent, this festival includes flash mobs, open-air theatre, and music on the streets of Hoylake and West Kirby.
Community and Socially Engaged Projects
- Description: Art created with and for local communities, often addressing social issues or celebrating shared culture.
- Examples:
- Granby Workshop Collaborative Arts: Bringing live workshops and performances to the community to highlight urban regeneration.
- Coastal Echoes: A Wirral-based initiative combining live storytelling with art in coastal spaces to explore environmental themes.
Experimental and Avant-Garde Live Art
- Description: Pushing boundaries with unconventional materials and methods, these projects often challenge societal norms.
- Examples:
- FACT Liverpool: Hosting experimental live art involving technology and AI.
- Wirral Met Emerging Artists: Showcasing bold, live improvisational art and performances by young creatives.
- Learn more about other great artists such as L.S Lowry, Istra Toner and more.
Art Prevention Project -Merseyside
A pioneering art project aimed at diverting people away from substance use and into support services has expanded across Merseyside.
First launched in Wirral last year, the We’ve got HeART project uses art to address substance use. The project is now live across Wirral and Knowsley, with more than 100 people taking part in the project to date.
Amanda Murphy, Constable Diane Park, Inspector Alan McKeon and Kelly Smith (Change, Grow, Live) on BBC Crimewatch Live – Learn more on the Merseyside Police website.
Historic Live Art Projects in Liverpool and the Wirral (2014–2024)
1. Liverpool Biennial 2016 & 2018
- Celebrated live performances across the city, including interactive works by internationally renowned artists.
- Highlight: Alexandra Pirici’s Synchronicity, blending performance art with urban history.
2. Giant Spectacular (2012, 2014, 2018)
- Iconic large-scale street performances featuring enormous marionettes from French company Royal de Luxe.
- Engaged hundreds of thousands of spectators, leaving a lasting legacy in Liverpool’s cultural landscape.
3. Wirral’s Coastline Festival (2017-2020)
- Focused on blending live music, storytelling, and performance art to highlight coastal culture.
- Involved partnerships with local schools, community groups, and environmental organizations. Find out about more events in the community on the Wirral Waters website.
4. LightNight Liverpool
- Annual event since 2010, bringing public spaces to life through live art, dance, and music.
- Standout Years: Themed events in 2019 (“Rituals”) and 2021 (“Play”) drew record-breaking attendance.
5. Turner Prize at Tate Liverpool (2015)
- While primarily an exhibition, it featured live art events, including discussions and performances that sparked dialogue about contemporary art practices.
6. Wirral Met’s Emerging Artists Series (2014–Present)
- Supported the careers of countless artists from the region, showcasing live performances and experimental works at annual showcases.
7. Granby Street Live Arts Movement (2014–2020)
- Live art as part of urban regeneration in Liverpool 8. Projects celebrated multicultural heritage and resilience.
Reflection and Future Prospects
Live art in Liverpool and the Wirral is a testament to the creative spirit of the region. These projects not only entertain but also provoke thought, foster community, and reflect the area’s rich history and diversity. As artists, we believe the future holds even greater opportunities for collaboration and innovation. From embracing cutting-edge technologies to amplifying local voices, the next decade promises to redefine live art in our community. Why not visit the Liverpool Museum website to view some of the Craft and Create programs.
Wirral Art Collective
“Championing creativity across the Wirral and beyond.”
Recommended Art Galleries:
Williamson Art Gallery & Museum
