Key points
Dates : June 7 to September 14, 2025
Theme : "BEDROCK" – geological, memorial and cultural foundations
Artists : 30 international artists and collectives
Locations : 18 locations in Liverpool including Bluecoat, Tate, FACT, Liverpool Cathedral, public places…
From 7 June to 14 September 2025 , the 13th edition of the Liverpool Biennial transforms the city into a vast artistic landscape with the theme "BEDROCK" . Under the direction of Marie-Anne McQuay , this edition interrogates the geological, historical and social foundations of Liverpool, bringing together 30 artists and collectives in 18 emblematic locations .
Drawing inspiration from the red sandstone that characterizes the city's architecture, "BEDROCK" explores what constitutes our foundations—whether familial, cultural, or environmental. The Biennial invites artists to propose narratives rooted in both the personal and collective, closely connected to Liverpool's complex identity, shaped by its colonial past and contemporary social dynamics.
A city transformed into an open-air gallery
Among the places invested: major institutions such as Bluecoat , FACT Liverpool , Tate Liverpool , Walker Art Gallery , Open Eye Gallery , or the majestic Liverpool Cathedral , but also unexpected public spaces such as Liverpool ONE , SEVENSTORE , or Eurochemist . Each site becomes the scene of immersive installations, personal stories and dialogues with the architecture, the inhabitants and the history of the place.
At Bluecoat, Amy Claire Mills presents a sensory installation inspired by physical rehabilitation, while Alice Rekab explores the intersecting legacies of Ireland and the African diaspora. At FACT, Kara Chin imagines a post-apocalyptic world influenced by manga, and Linda Lamignan questions our relationship with the living. At the cathedral, Ana Navas and Maria Loizidou pay tribute to women through works combining glass, textiles, and migratory memory.
A program in three layers, like a section of the ground
The festival is organized into three main events, each exploring a different facet of the word "bedrock": in June, artists explore Liverpool's civic and colonial history. In July, the theme of family—biological or chosen—takes over, followed in September by a reflection on geology and the passage of time throughout the city.
Workshops, performances, artist talks, and guided tours punctuate the 14 weeks. An illustrated children's book , designed by Catherine Haines and Kohenoor Kamal , allows children to approach the works with poetry and curiosity. Finally, a dedicated publication and a special edition by Isabel Nolan extend the experience for enthusiasts and collectors.
FAQ – Liverpool Biennial 2025
What is the Liverpool Biennial?
The Liverpool Biennial is the UK's largest contemporary art festival. Held every two years since 1998, it transforms the city into an international arts hub. The 2025 edition, titled "BEDROCK," explores Liverpool's social, historical, and geological foundations through exhibitions, installations, and performances.
When is the 2025 Biennale?
From June 7 to September 14, 2025 , 14 weeks of events, exhibitions and activities throughout the city.
Where does the Biennale take place?
In 18 locations across Liverpool , including institutions such as Bluecoat , Tate Liverpool , Walker Art Gallery , FACT , Liverpool Cathedral , but also public spaces such as Liverpool ONE , SEVENSTORE , and even more unusual places.
How many artists are participating?
30 artists and collectives from the UK and around the world.
Is the Biennale suitable for families?
Yes. Children's workshops are held every Saturday during school holidays. An illustrated children's book has also been created to help young children discover the works.
Is there an official publication?
Yes. A "BEDROCK" publication featuring the works, critical texts, and participating artists is available, as well as a limited edition signed by Isabel Nolan .
Nicolas Sarazin