This year the festival has taken its inspiration from the interplay between music and photography in both its exhibitions, talks and workshops. In a playful way we recognize the important role of photography in the music industry and how artists have portrayed this industry in their work.

Highlights of this year’s festival include exhibitions ‘POP’ b award winning photographer Brian Griffin whose exhibited work has entered into the album cover hall of fame and ‘Disciples of Music’ by James Mollison who has won the Royal photographic societies award for notable achievement in the art of photography by a photographer under 35. New Musical Express (NME) photographer Jenn Five will also be joining us to provide a unique insight into the world of music, including her work for notable artists from Prince to the Foo Fighters.

In partnership with the cities galleries, our off theme section to the festival offers a broad range of subjects and topics from working class communities and air pollution to sport.