Design Manchester is a not-for-profit organisation which gives voice to local creatives. And coming soon is the group’s seventh annual festival, which features exhibitions, debates, workshops, talks, movies, and parties – at venues across the city. The aim is to celebrate design in all its forms and to look at smart technologies. Below are five of the festival’s must-see events…

Music in Pictures – Buzzcocks to Bowie | Sat 9 Nov | 1.30pm | £8

Author Travis Elborough will be in conversation with two acclaimed record cover designers: Malcolm Garrett, who worked with Buzzcocks and Simple Minds; and Jonathan Barnbrook who produced the artwork for David Bowie’s final albums. Through references to their own work, they will discuss what makes a good record sleeve and the process of trying to translate and encapsulate music in a visual form.
Sat 9 Nov, The Principal, Oxford Street, Manchester, M60 7HA, 12.15pm – 1.30pm, £8,

The Principal, Oxford Street, Manchester, M60 7HA, Tel: 0161 288 1111
Lend Me Your Ear | 14 Nov - 31 Jan | Noon - 12am | Free

This exhibition is a collaboration between artists from two generations: music photographer Andrew Cotterill and illustrator Ben Tallon. It consists of a series of images depicting music artists – both living and dead – who never attempted to hide the true essence of their character, and inspired millions of people along the way. A love letter to self-expression, it celebrates creativity, individuality and human energy.

PLY, 26 Lever Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M1 1DW, Tel: 0161 711 0401
Manchester Print Fair | Sat 16 Nov | 10am - 4pm | Free

The Fair is a regular independent arts event which showcases all manner of printed design. In the suitably picturesque setting of the Cathedral, you’ll find 50 local makers with everything from artists’ books and zines to posters and tea towels. This edition has a festive theme, so will be a great place to pick up cards, presents, and decorations.

Manchester Cathedral, Victoria Street, Manchester, M3 1SX, Tel: 0161 833 2220
Relight Your Fire | Thu 21 Nov | 6pm - 8.30pm | Free

This networking event is for freelancers, the self-employed and business owners. The evening begins with free drinks and mingling and then you will have the chance to talk about the highs and lows of this kind of work. The aim is to help you connect with interesting people and re-connect with the reasons why you started doing it all in the first place. The event is free, but registration is required.

Cultureplex, Ground Floor, Warehouse, Ducie Street, Manchester, M1 2TP, Tel: 0161 713 3130
Strip! How Football Got Shirty | 22 Nov - 7 Jul | 10am - 5pm | Free

This major exhibition takes a look at footy kit fashion and design through the ages – from the woollen jerseys of the Victorian era, through to the replica boom and to the heavily branded polyester of today. Over 200 shirts will be on display, and you can have your say as to the best ever, and pass judgement on the ‘own goals’ which have made it into the Hall of Shame.

The National Football Museum, Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, Todd Street, Manchester, M4 3BG, Tel: 0161 605 8200
Words:
A. James Simpkin
Published on:
Mon 28 Oct 2019