ReelBFD: Digital Arts, Bradford Stories – Interactive Exhibition at the National Science and Media Museum

About

14 June – 7 September 2025 | Free with Museum Admission

The National Science and Media Museum will host ReelBFD: Digital Arts, Bradford Stories, a new interactive exhibition featuring digital artwork created by young people from Bradford. Opening on Saturday 14 June, the exhibition runs until Sunday 7 September and is free with museum entry.

Part of the Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture programme, this showcase celebrates the creativity of local 13- and 14-year-olds who worked alongside professional digital artists through the Bradford Digital Creatives project. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the students’ work first-hand, including:

• Playable digital games
• Atmospheric soundscapes
• Immersive video installations
• Storyboards, sketches, and development materials revealing the creative process

Public Programme and Visitor Activities

From 28 July, a public programme will accompany the exhibition, offering hands-on sessions where visitors can create their own digitally inspired art. These activities are designed to further engage the public in the themes explored by the students’ work.

About the Bradford Digital Creatives Project

The exhibition marks the culmination of a two-year project involving over 1,300 students from six Bradford schools: Appleton Academy, Belle Vue Girls’ Academy, Bradford AP Academy, Carlton Bolling, Carlton Keighley and Dixons Allerton. Working in partnership with digital artists including Virpi Kettu, Paul Miller, Cosmos, Arfaan Amini, Tanya Vital, Caro C and Impact Gamers, the students developed creative skills and explored digital storytelling techniques.

Participants also contributed to key aspects of the exhibition, from developing the title – ReelBFD, a nod to both the city and digital storytelling – to designing promotional materials aimed at engaging their peers.

Partnership and Funding

The project is delivered by the National Science and Media Museum and Born in Bradford, supported by Bradford 2025, Bradford Council and Arts Council England.

Quotes

Jo Quinton-Tulloch, Director of the National Science and Media Museum, said:
“ReelBFD: Digital Arts, Bradford Stories is a testament to the creativity and talent of Bradford’s young people. This exhibition is more than just a showcase – it’s a recognition that their voices belong alongside established artists, shaping the cultural landscape of our city.”

Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director of Bradford 2025, said:
“In a world where digital is the first stop for creativity, ReelBFD showcases the imagination, talent, and technical skills of our young people. Through digital storytelling, game design, and interactive experiences, they are shaping the future of digital arts.”