Harry Hill has been officially announced as the artist to lead the next phase of DRAW!, a nationwide drawing initiative associated with Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture. The project is inspired and supported by the renowned Bradford-born artist David Hockney, who kicked off the program with an invitation to explore beauty in January 2025. Under Hill’s direction, participants will engage with the theme of ‘A Typical Sunday Morning’ throughout June.

In a delightful twist, Hill’s own whimsical illustration captures the theme, depicting a humorous scenario where he is seemingly pursued by his cat. This playful image, released alongside a draw-along video, encourages individuals from all backgrounds to pick up their drawing tools, be it paper or digital. The DRAW! initiative invites people across the UK to share their interpretations, fostering a collective artistic expression reflective of everyday life.

The integration of DRAW! with CBBC’s new series Go Get Arty, which features Hill voicing an animated paintbrush named Bristles, amplifies the project’s outreach. The show, produced by Ranga Bee Productions, aims to inspire creativity among children and families by encouraging them to create their own artworks in an accessible format. Each episode promises interactive challenges and showcases various artists, including celebrity draw-alongs, thereby broadening the creative landscape for younger audiences.

Participants can submit their artworks by uploading them to bradford2025.co.uk/mydrawing or via social media using the hashtag #bradford2025. A selection of submitted pieces will feature on the Bradford 2025 website and culminate in a special exhibition later in the year. This continuous engagement throughout 2025 not only aims to build community but also celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of the UK.

As Bradford prepares for its cultural spotlight, drawing workshops for all ages will complement the DRAW! programme. Contributions from local, national, and international artists will keep the themes fresh and innovative—previous artists have included notable figures such as Adébayo Bolaji and Dame Zandra Rhodes. Hill’s involvement adds a layer of charm and accessibility, as he urges the public to embrace artistry, stating, “It doesn’t matter what you draw, or how good you are at it, as long as you do draw. In fact, the worse you are, the more fun it is.”

Harry Hill, who has entertained UK audiences for nearly three decades, is no stranger to the art scene. His works have been showcased at the Royal Academy of Arts’ Summer Exhibition on multiple occasions, illustrating an artistic flair that aligns with his comedic roots. This latest venture reinforces not only his artistic diversity but also the collaborative spirit of Bradford 2025, as the city gears up for a momentous year dedicated to celebrating creativity and cultural expression.

As part of this initiative, collaborators at Bradford 2025 continue to explore innovative educational content in partnership with the BBC, promising to deliver a year rife with artistic exploration across various mediums. The project not only represents a commitment to the arts but also reflects the vital role that cultural institutions play in community building and public engagement.

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Source: Noah Wire Services