Southampton is a city with so much to give, as displayed by its place in the UK city of culture 2025 long list…
The maritime city of Southampton is a hub of culture and history and was quick to impress judges with a dynamic offering that is set to transform and prosper the city well into the future. One of eight remaining contenders from an original list of 20, Southampton’s proclivity to impress and inspire those that visit is something that is only set to increase with the years.
With a whole host of exciting initiatives, attractions and galleries, Southampton is already a huge creative hub that has a strong cultural foothold ready to be harnessed under the city of culture banner.
Highlights include the recently opened God’s House Tower, a contemporary arts and heritage centre which interprets the city’s history – both past and living – through a revolving programme of exhibitions and art inspired events and talks. Also new for 2021 is the Arts Council England funded MAST Mayflower Studios – a multi-art form cultural hub presenting and producing theatre, dance, music, comedy, circus, cabaret and spoken word.
While located in the city’s Cultural Quarter, the Southampton City Art Gallery has one of the finest art collections in the south of England with 5000 works spanning eight centuries and an ongoing programme of exhibitions, events and talks. Nearby, the celebrated John Hansard Gallery, part of the University of Southampton, is one of the UK’s leading contemporary art galleries which aims to support, develop and present great art by outstanding artists from across the world as well as play a dynamic role in the cultural life of Southampton and the region.
The city is also home to the Mayflower Theatre, the biggest theatre on the south coast; plus has a growing programme of public art commissions, live music venues and arts-focused events including new for 2021 Re:Claim, an urban street festival event
Other cities on the long-list include Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon, Bradford, Cornwall, County Durham, Derby, Stirling and Wrexham County Borough. The full application deadline is Wednesday 26 January 2022, this will create a short-list of 4 locations, with judges visiting those shortlisted in March 2022 and the winner announced in May 2022.
Find out more at: https://www.southampton2025.co.uk/
For more inspiration about what’s on and what to do in the city, www.visitsouthampton.co.uk
