10th edition of art festival to be held in Barnsley

Next year, Barnsley will become the venue for the 10th edition of a major technology-focused arts festival. The AND Festival is scheduled to run from 25 to 27 September.

According to organisers Abandon Normal Devices, the event will present a wide range of groundbreaking digital art, immersive screenings and creative performances.

Robin Franklin, speaking on behalf of Barnsley Councils Regeneration and Culture department, highlighted the importance of the collaboration, saying the partnership will bring a globally recognised digital arts celebration to the town. He emphasized the goal of offering inspiring experiences that fuel ambition, creativity and curiosity among both residents and visitors.

The programme will include XR installations, live performances, screenings and discussions featuring leading specialists in digital innovation.

The festival, known for blending live art with striking visual environments, has been running since 2009 and has previously taken place in locations such as the Peak District and the Manchester Ship Canal.

Abandon Normal Devices describes the festival as a platform that turns Northern landscapes into experimental spaces for digital and artistic exploration. Chief executive Tadeo Lopez-Sendon noted that past editions have transformed natural surroundings into immersive, other-worldly settings designed specifically for each unique environment.

Author: Gavin Porter