Northern Voices celebrates the extraordinary artistic talent in our region: creators with distinct vision, whose work is bold and resonant.
Launched in 2021, the initiative has seen more than 18 local artists, writers and creative freelancers respond imaginatively to Manchester Collective’s work. Their creations span different mediums – from film, music and photography, to visual art and critical writing.
The 2022 commissioning round is now closed for applications.
Supported by The Granada Foundation and Arts Council England
NV 2022
THE ARTISTS →
For Northern Voices 2022, three Manchester-based artists were invited to respond to this year’s theme Weather, inspired by Michael Gordon’s cult piece for string orchestra. You can experience the artworks below.
SOPHIE BROADGATE
In Motion
Sophie has made a short film exploring the emotional experience of autism and the role of stimming (self-stimulatory behaviour).
MARY GRIFFITHS
Weather
Mary’s series of graphite drawings responds to the four movements of Michael Gordon’s ‘Weather’, testing the relationship between sound and image.
MOLLY MAJOR
Music + Mark Making
Molly is hosting a free workshop for families at Stretford Public Hall, providing an interactive space for people to respond to ‘Weather’ in playful ways.
THE WRITERS →
In partnership with Salt Magazine
ISABEL ARMITAGE
Manchester Collective’s breathtaking recreation of WEATHER at RNCM
NV 2021
THE ARTISTS →
In the first Northern Voices commissioning round, three Manchester-based artists created new works taking inspiration from a Manchester Collective project – you can experience them below.
Please note the artworks contain material that some people may find challenging. They include references to death, substance abuse, mental distress, and body dysmorphia. The descriptions under each work will give you a sense of the subject matter.
CHRIS ALTON
Words to Grieve, Part #1
Chris has collaborated with Emily Simpson to create a series of posters which explore the language around grief and bereavement.
COURTSWRITES
Blink
Courtney ‘CourtsWrites’ Hayles’ short film centres on an artist’s turbulent experience, and overcoming, of a creative block.
CURRENTMOODGIRL
Skin Stretch
Musician and producer CURRENTMOODGIRL’s new track for voice and electronics takes a classical masterpiece and subverts its narrative.
THE WRITERS →
In partnership with Salt Magazine
