Manchester Art Battle will take over Factory International this Friday- with 10 fresh new artists painting against the clock.
The competition offers a live painting spectacle with a gig atmosphere featuring live art, DJs, street food, drinks, and more surprises.
Each of the 10 artists will participate in 30 minute rounds as the audience moves around and observes to decide who will be crowned champion.
The winner gets a coveted golden paintbrush and a valuable voucher for art supplies – and will join the league of winners.
It is a tradition to never use the same venue, and this year’s event at Factory International sees it share the space with an immersive exhibition of one of the most emergent artists today – David Hockney.
Tattoo artists, illustrators, professional painters, street artists – anyone brave enough can participate.
All of the artwork created on the night will be put into a silent bid and auctioned off with 50% of the proceeds going to a Manchester-based charity.
The event has raised £100,000 for charity during its 11 year history.
Art battle founder John Macaulay and his wife Sophie started Manchester Art Battle in 2013 based on their shared interest in making art more welcoming for all, and allowing people to share their opinion on it without pretension.
John said: “Painting in such a unique environment in front of so many people and under such time pressured conditions – I think if there is a way to push your creative boundaries then taking part in art battle is it.”
Over the years the founders have got to know a lot of artists and created an art battle alumni community of more than 300 and John does what he can to continue to support them and the Manchester cultural scene.
He added: “We get a buzz out of connecting artists. It’s tough being an artist in today’s society. I don’t think society always values culture and particularly visual art as much as it should, so any opportunities that we can point artists in the direction of, are better for everyone.”
The last battle took place in September at Champness Hall in Rochdale- and tattoo and fine artist Tibor Varga walked away the winner.
After attending an art battle as an audience member he knew he wanted to try it out and says winning was the highlight of his year.
He said: “You have to be focused and be brave with the paint strokes – there is no time to correct mistakes or fiddle around.”
Tickets are £19.50 per person and doors open at 19:00 this Friday at Factory International.
Featured image courtesy of John Macaulay
Join the discussion