Bradford 2025: Celebrating Hockney, Turner Prize, and Bronte Legacy

Bradford has been selected as the UK City of Culture for 2025, a title that aims to showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and diverse community. The announcement was made in 2022, with the city competing against County Durham, Southampton, and Wrexham. The year-long program will feature a variety of events, including a nationwide drawing project led by renowned artist David Hockney, who was born in Bradford. This initiative encourages participation from people of all ages across the UK, reflecting everyday life through art. In addition to Hockney's project, the Turner Prize will be hosted at Cartwright Hall art gallery, marking a significant cultural event for the city. Other planned activities include an adaptation of 'The Railway Children' filmed in its original locations and a musical project by conductor Charles Hazlewood. The events aim to celebrate local heritage, including tributes to the Brontë sisters and the city's vibrant music scene, which will highlight brass bands and South Asian music. The initiative is expected to generate £700 million and create approximately 3,000 jobs, significantly impacting the local economy. Zayn Malik, a former One Direction member and Bradford native, has been appointed as the ambassador for the City of Culture year, emphasizing his connection to the city despite his current residence in the US. Bradford is recognized for its youthful population, with over a quarter under the age of 20, and its diverse community, making it a fitting choice for this cultural honor. The City of Culture designation is awarded every four years, with previous winners including Derry, Hull, and Coventry.