Tate Liverpool has launched a new collaboration with several local printmaking groups to host a series of pop-up displays and creative workshops at Metquarter. The project, which runs over two weekends in October, provides a platform for Liverpool's print artists and young creatives while the main gallery undergoes major redevelopment.
Key Takeaways
- Tate Liverpool is partnering with Liverpool Community Print Station, Prints ‘n Tha’, and Comics Youth for a pop-up creative space in Metquarter.
- The project features artwork by local artists and young people aged 18-22, with a special focus on the theme of wrestling.
- Events include a Zine and Print Fair, drop-in workshops, and film screenings over two weekends in October.
- The initiative is part of Tate Liverpool's strategy to engage with the community across the city region during its temporary closure.
Creative Partnership Brings Art to City Centre
While its Royal Albert Dock home is closed for a significant transformation, Tate Liverpool is ensuring art remains accessible to the public through city-wide partnerships. This latest initiative sees the gallery team up with Liverpool Community Print Station (LCPS) and artist collective Prints ‘n Tha’ to take over a retail unit in Metquarter.
The space will function as a temporary creative hub, showcasing a variety of printed materials including posters and zines. It offers a unique opportunity for shoppers and art lovers to experience the work of local talent outside of a traditional gallery setting.
The collaboration also extends to Comics Youth, an organisation dedicated to empowering young people through creative expression. A group of artists aged 18 to 22 from Comics Youth has been working closely with the print studios to develop new skills and produce original work for the display.
Tate Liverpool's Redevelopment
Tate Liverpool is currently undergoing a major redevelopment project to reimagine its gallery spaces. During this period, the gallery is running an off-site programme called 'Tate Liverpool on Tour,' working with cultural venues and community organisations across the Liverpool City Region to bring art to new audiences.
Wrestling Theme Inspires Young Artists
A central theme of the project is professional wrestling, chosen to explore ideas of storytelling, performance, and the line between reality and artifice. The young artists from Comics Youth were challenged to interpret this theme through a series of skills-based workshops.
The resulting artworks are diverse and imaginative. Visitors can expect to see pieces that reference classic Greek statues and urns, alongside larger-than-life wrestling characters. Other notable works include an installation of a defeated wrestling 'Bluebottle' and a handmade artist’s book depicting a 'scouse bird scrap'.
"At Tate we believe that art can be uplifting and life enhancing. Working with these brilliant young creatives over the last few weeks has, once again, proved that to be the case," said Phil McClure, Assistant Curator for Learning at Tate Liverpool.
The wrestling theme is also reflected in works by established local artists. The display includes pieces by LCPS founder Rhonda Davies and photographer Tony Knox, who has spent several years documenting Liverpool's professional wrestling scene.
Participant Experiences
Young artists involved in the project described it as a positive and collaborative experience. Participant Morgan Machray said, "It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to work alongside such lovely, unique and talented individuals of whom I’ve enjoying making friends with along the way.”
Fleur Fradgley added, "I’ve had such an amazing time over four super fun sessions with everybody, as we worked together, explored new techniques and brainstormed for the exhibition. Which has all smashed together to create an exciting exhibition filled with such wild, loud and diverse pieces!"
Public Events and Workshop Schedule
The pop-up space at Metquarter will host a series of public events, offering visitors a chance to engage directly with the artists and the city's vibrant print culture. The space is open for viewing from 12:00 to 16:00 on Saturday, 11 October and Sunday, 12 October.
The following weekend features a packed schedule of activities:
- Zine and Print Fair: On Saturday, 18 October, from 11:00 to 16:00, LCPS will host a special edition of its popular Zine and Print Fair. The event brings together makers from across Merseyside, the North, and Wales to sell their work.
- Creative Workshops and Film: On Sunday, 19 October, from 12:00 to 17:00, the artists will run a drop-in collage club workshop. Additionally, People vs TV will present a programme of wrestling-themed films.
Supporting Liverpool's Zine Culture
Jowann Mohammed of Prints n’ Tha’ commented on the project's importance for the local scene: "We’re happy to see Liverpool’s zine community growing daily and we’re very excited to be able to invite new stall holders from across Merseyside, the North and Wales.”
A Hub of Creativity at Metquarter
The partnership has been welcomed by Metquarter, which continues to position itself as a centre for creative and cultural collaboration in Liverpool.
Jennina O’Neill, Metquarter Centre Manager, expressed her enthusiasm for the project. "We are beyond excited to be working with Tate Liverpool again after the success of our partnership last year," she said. "Metquarter has always been a home for creativity and collaboration, and this project captures that, bringing together artists, young creatives and the wider community."
O'Neill added, "It is brilliant to see local organisations such as LCPS, Prints ‘n Tha’ and Comics Youth transforming our space into a hub of creativity and expression.” The project serves as a clear example of how cultural institutions and commercial spaces can work together to enrich the city's public life.