Liverpool Biennial

Liverpool Biennial is the UK Biennial of Contemporary Art.

For ten weeks every two years the city of Liverpool is host to an extensive range of artworks, projects and a dynamic programme of events. It is the largest international contemporary art festival in the UK.

Liverpool Biennial unfolds through a programme of exhibitions and projects that lead to a rediscovery of the city. Newly commissioned and existing artworks and projects are presented in diverse locations, including unusual and unexpected public spaces as well as the city’s galleries, museums and cultural venues. The cultural organisations in Liverpool work together in partnership to create an unparalleled context for the presentation of contemporary art and culture.

Liverpool Biennial commissions leading and emerging artists to make and present permanent and temporary public artworks as well as long-term community-based projects. There is an integrated research programme of learning, talks and events creating a dynamic year-round programme.

• Since its launch in 1999, Liverpool Biennial has commissioned over 200 new artworks

• Liverpool Biennial attracts over 600,000 visitors over 10 weeks

• In 2010 visitors to the Biennial spent £27millon

• 900 artists participate in each festival and its fringe

Sally Tallant is the Artistic Director and CEO. Liverpool Biennial was conceived and founded in 1998 by James Moores (with Jane Rankin Read, Lewis Biggs and Bryan Biggs) and presented the first Liverpool Biennial in 1999. The 7th edition of Liverpool Biennial takes place 15 September – 25 November 2012.