Michael Makes History at Manchester International Festival
Over several dates in July, Michael Beard, who we support in Manchester, made history as the first neurodivergent and learning-disabled Artist-in-Residence at the Manchester International Festival (MIF).
His live show, ‘Experiments in the Lab’, involved creating a ten-metre-long tapestry in front of an audience. The performance posed questions such as: What happens in an artist’s studio? and How does a working environment impact creativity?
Michael began the live show by painting vivid brushstrokes on a huge scroll, while a team dried the artwork with hairdryers. The scroll shifted along the table and snaked onto the floor – a tapestry that looked truly alive.
Surrounding Michael, professional dancers and musicians improvised in response to his art, using movement and melody that changed with the mood of his work. By the time Michael finished an hour later, he had left the audience in awe.
Running alongside the live shows was Michael’s solo exhibition, featuring brightly coloured, large-scale canvases. The works repeat names of cities, famous towers, and graphic signage layered atop one another in striking compositions.
Ivett, a Support Worker who has supported Michael since 2012, said:
“Michael has a passion for travel, and his works represent places he has visited. Michael has been creating his art at Venture Arts on Wednesdays since I’ve known him. He really likes it there. I am so incredibly proud of Michael. Watching him put so much effort and wonderful joy into his artwork has been truly inspiring. His amazing project not only impressed us, but also reminded us how
capable he is. He’s got something truly special.”
Venture Arts is a not-for-profit organisation that collaborates with neurodivergent and learning-disabled artists in Manchester. They have supported Michael’s journey as an artist and regularly exhibit his work.
Communications Officer Grae felt honoured to see the artist in action at the live show:
“Michael’s vigorous energy, the bright colours he chooses, and the speed with which he creates his work make his process and art visually exciting. The show was sensory, collaborative, colourful – beautiful.”
Read more about the live performance and exhibition here
Find out more about Michael as an artist here