Free things to do this week ft. Graphene, Jazz Festival + more

Wonder Materials: Graphene and Beyond at MSI
The Museum of Science & Industry opened its latest major exhibition at the weekend, covering the miracle substance graphene, the super-strong, super-conductive, one-atom-thick form of carbon discovered in Manchester. Come learn about its development, its properties and its many, many potential applications in this fascinating exhibition blending science, art and design to provide a real insight into the metal of tomorrow. Read our preview here.
Sat 23 Jul 2016 – Sun 25 Jul 2017, Museum of Science & Industry, Liverpool Road, Manchester, M3 4FP. Tel: 0161 832 2244, 10am – 5pm, www.msimacnhester.org.uk

Northern Line Showcase at Central Libary
Another thing that kicked off at the weekend was Manchester Jazz Festival and if you give the festival programme a look, you’ll see there’s plenty of free stuff to get you teeth into over the next week. Of particular interest is this afternoon-long showcase at Central Library presented by Jazz North, which shows off two of the North’s best up-and-coming jazz acts, the sax-led Inclusion Principle and bass-heavy improvisers Tom Rivière’s Family Band.
Mon 25 Jul, Central Library, St Peter’s Square, Manchester, M2 5PD. Tel: 0161 234 1983, 2.40pm – 5pm, www.librarylive.co.uk

Science In The City Late at MoSI
A second showing for MoSI in this week’s listings. The museum keeps its doors open a little longer tonight for composer-in-residence Anna Meredith. Along with a group of young, female musicians, she’ll be performing a newly-commissioned piece inspired by the aforementioned Graphene exhibition. As well as this, there’ll be some interesting themed foods on offer, including 3D printed chocolate and insect sushi. It’s free to attend, but registration through Eventbrite is essential.
Wed 27 Jul, Museum of Science & Industry, Liverpool Road, Manchester, M3 4FP. Tel: 0161 832 2244, 7pm – 10.30pm, www.eventbrite.co.uk

Amelia Crouch Preview at Castlefield Gallery
The Castlefield Gallery’s Launch Pad series aims to give young and undiscovered artists a shot at testing out new ideas, and their latest protegé is Yorkshire-based visual artist Amelia Crouch. Crouch’s exhibition will be opening at the weekend, but you can check it out early at this preview on Thursday evening. Her past work ranges from printmaking and textiles to video and site-specific pieces, so expect a broad range on offer.
Thu 28 Jul, Castlefield Gallery, 2 Hewitt Street, Manchester M15 4GB. Tel: 0161 832 8034, 6pm – 8pm, www.facebook.com

OverDrawn at Deaf Institute (pictured)
OverDrawn is a new night of live art at The Deaf Institute. Four local artists will join together in the venue’s main bar, each completing a unique drawing in front of an audience, with DJ backing. As part of the night, there’s also an open pencil section, where anyone who’s feeling a little creative can join in the creation of a collaborative piece.
Thu 28 Jul, Deaf Institute, 135 Grosvenor Street, Manchester, M1 7HE. 6pm – 12am, www.facebook.com