Southport turns into an open-air gallery as over 400 young artists put their stamp on the town

Southport is bursting with colour and creativity this summer thanks to a new outdoor exhibition that’s transformed the town into a giant open-air gallery.

More than 400 young artists from across the North West have had their work turned into a stunning art trail called There’s Something Good About Southport, an open-air gallery which is free to visit and runs until 14 September.

The project has turned the approach to Adventure Coast Southport into a bright celebration of young talent, with each artwork proudly framed and displayed alongside the artist’s name on a gold plaque. The result is nearly 100 metres of colour, imagination and positivity.

Children and young people aged 3 to 18 have captured everything from sunny days on the seafront and peaceful park walks to the friendships, families and community spirit that make the town special. The pieces come from local schools and families in Southport as well as towns and cities across the region, including Manchester, Chorley, Bolton and Blackburn.

Norman Wallis, CEO of Adventure Coast Southport, said:
“This is about much more than displaying art — it’s about giving kids a voice and giving Southport something to be really proud of. It’s joyful, emotional and inspirational, and it shows our town through the eyes of its future.”

The exhibition’s impact goes even further with ten standout pieces up for special recognition. The public will get to vote on Facebook to decide which three winning artworks will be turned into large-scale permanent displays before being gifted back to the young artists later this year.

Timed to run alongside Southport Art Week in August, the installation is already turning heads and putting smiles on faces. The plan is for it to become a yearly celebration of young voices, with next year’s theme already decided — Visions for Southport’s Future.

Whether you’re heading to Adventure Coast or just strolling by, this is one outdoor gallery you don’t want to miss. Soak up the creativity, see Southport through fresh eyes and enjoy every splash of colour along the way.

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