Welcome to Yorkshire
Inspiration • August 6th, 2026
|The Bradford Culture Company has announced an exciting new programme of events designed to celebrate nature and culture in the district. Building on the success of Bradford's year as the 2025 UK City of Culture, this initiative aims to bring world-class experiences to local greenspaces, inviting communities to engage with art and nature in unique ways. Events will take place throughout the year, focusing on the connection between people, places, and the natural environment.
Harmonic Fields
One of the standout events is the Harmonic Fields, which will be held from Wednesday 9 to Sunday 13 September on the summit of Baildon Moor. This event features an orchestra of over 200 specially designed instruments that are powered by nature itself. Created by composer Pierre Sauvageot, this innovative performance has been showcased in cities like Copenhagen, Marseille, and Helsinki, and now makes its debut in West Yorkshire.
Visitors can wander through the moorlands, enjoying a unique symphonic experience created by both the elements and performers dressed as 'wind farmers'. The orchestra will include a variety of instruments such as:
Vibrating drums
Windmill glockenspiels
Harmonic cellos
Bamboo flutes
Propeller sirens
Gyrating musical boxes
This immersive experience will be set against a stunning rural backdrop, offering 360-degree views across the Bradford district.
Flower Carpet Premiere
Another highlight of the programme is the UK premiere of the internationally renowned Flower Carpet, taking place from Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 September in Centenary Square, Bradford. Inspired by the city’s rich industrial heritage and textile history, local artist Shiraaz Ali has crafted an intricate design that spans an impressive 29 metres, made from over 300,000 colourful dahlia flower heads.
This living artwork will be created live by a team of 40 participants in front of the public, transforming the square into a vibrant floral display. Each night, the carpet will be illuminated with sound and light, adding an extra layer of magic to the experience. After the event, the flowers will be composted, allowing them to naturally decompose and continue their lifecycle.
Artist Residencies
As part of this programme, local artists, musicians, photographers, and writers will participate in three-month residencies across various locations in the Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve. These artists will draw inspiration from the natural beauty of the area, which includes sites like Bingley North Bog, Penistone Hill, and Trench Meadows. Their work will involve sound walks, artworks, and performances that engage with the distinct environments of the reserve.
Super Nature Screening
On Saturday 10 October, there will also be a special screening of Super Nature, a film by Ed Sayers, at the National Science and Media Museum’s Pictureville Cinema. This film, shot entirely on Super 8 cameras, takes viewers on a journey across 25 different countries, showcasing the beauty of land, air, and underwater environments.
Walking Challenge
In addition to these events, a brand new 18-mile walking route through the Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve will be launched in September. To celebrate this opening, a special ‘challenge walk’ is scheduled for Saturday 19 September. This walk will take participants from Ilkley Moor through various scenic locations, including Baildon Moor and Trench Meadows, and will conclude at Penistone Hill above Haworth. For those who prefer a shorter trek, experienced local guides will lead shorter walks on the same day, ensuring everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Family activities will also be available at key locations along the route, making it an exciting day out for people of all ages.
Community Engagement
Jane Earnshaw, Executive Producer at Bradford Culture Company, expressed the importance of these events:
“There has never been a more important time to shine a spotlight on our environment and natural surroundings. The UK is one of the world’s most nature-depleted countries, and the situation is only getting worse. By encouraging audiences to experience art and creativity in nature, we’re not only showcasing the incredible beauty of our district but also helping to increase people’s understanding of how significant these spaces are and why they should be protected for future generations.”
Support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund has been crucial for this programme.
Helen Featherstone, Director at the fund, remarked:
“Bradford’s natural heritage and green spaces are something to be very proud of, and we’re thrilled to be supporting this programme of events. Thanks to National Lottery players, this programme will ensure local communities and visitors to Bradford will connect with nature and explore the value of nature in all our daily lives.”
Local Leaders Support
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, highlighted the importance of integrating art with nature:
“West Yorkshire is vibrant with culture and creativity, and as the great Castleford-born artist Henry Moore once said, it is the job of artists to help people see and appreciate nature. By embedding talented artists in our beautiful landscapes, this programme is an innovative way to encourage people to enjoy art and nature together.”
Cllr Andrew Judson, Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy, Regeneration and Planning:
“Introducing all these cultural activities to our District over the next few months is a great way to celebrate our stunning local landscapes while building on the success of our Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture year.”
For more information about these exciting events, visit bradfordculture.co.uk.
