Following the full-on blast of Manchester International Festival, there’s always a bit of a lull in the city. So why not indulge in a cultural day trip? As you’ll see from our top 3, there is a world of fun to be had, all just a short train ride or drive away from Manchester city centre.

1. In the presence of a legend: Jackson Pollock at Tate Liverpool
Pollock is famous for his ‘action paintings’ which saw him drip, splash and smear paint across canvases on his studio floor. He’s also widely regarded as man who changed art forever, inventing contemporary art as we know it thought his abstract works, informed by everything from spiritualism to urbanisation. This new show is the first in over 30 years to explore the facet of his work called ‘black pourings’.
Until Sun 18 Oct, Tate Liverpool, Albert Dock, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool L3 4BB. Tel: 0151 702 7400, times vary, £7.25-£11, www.tate.org.uk

2. Take a florescent bath: Light Fantastic at National Media Museum (pictured)
This new show, perfectly timed to coincide with the school holidays, celebrates the UNESCO International Year of Light with immersive and interactive exhibits which are designed to be both fun and educational. Learn about the science of light and take some selfies among the florescent bulbs and mirrors.
Until Sun 1 Nov, National Media Museum, Little Horton Lane, Bradford, BD1 1NQ. Tel: 0844 856 3797, times vary, FREE, www.nationalmediamuseum.org.uk

3. Whimsical papercuts: Rob Ryan retrospective at Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a proper day out at any time of year – but its even more special when there’s a Rob Ryan retrospective at the visitor centre. If you’ve not seen his work, imagine real life, made more romantic through lace-like papercuts. Drawn from the last six years of the artist’s career, it’s a chance to lose yourself in Ryan’s world.
Until Sun 1 Nov, Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 4LG. Tel: 01924 832631, times vary, FREE, www.ysp.co.uk

Tue 21 Jul - Sun 1 Nov
Words:
Ruth Allan
Published on:
Wed 28 Oct 2015