Liverpool Biennial announces title and artists for its 2027 edition

Liverpool Biennial has announced the theme and lineup of artists for its upcoming 14th edition, titled ‘The Age of Magical Thinking.’ Scheduled to take place from 5 June to 19 September 2027, this edition is curated by Aimee Harrison and Lucía Sanromán. The event will showcase 25 international artists and collectives presenting their work throughout Liverpool’s galleries and public spaces.

The Biennial’s title references a concept identified by psychologist Jean Piaget, describing a phase in childhood development where the distinction between reality and imagination becomes blurred. During this stage, the imagination is especially vivid, opening possibilities for creating new and alternative worlds. Throughout the city, artworks will engage with themes that reflect on childhood experiences, children’s rights, and the role of young people as knowledgeable experts in their own lives. Visitors will be invited to participate in interactive projects that encourage learning through play and technology, while provoking reflection on the past, present, and future.

Among the participating artists are Ad Minoliti (Argentina), Amalia Pica (Argentina/UK), Anya Paintsil (Wales), Charmaine Poh (Singapore/Germany), Dor Guez (Jerusalem/Athens), Francis Alÿs (Belgium/Mexico), Harold Offeh (Ghana/UK), and Laakkuluk Williamson (Greenlandic Inuk/Canada), among others. One highlight includes an interactive public artwork in Williamson Square, co-created with local young people and artist Harold Offeh. This space will host events and activities throughout the summer of 2027, supported by Arts Council England’s National Lottery Project Grants and in partnership with the European Children’s Rights Unit, The University of Liverpool’s School of Law and Social Justice, Merseyside Youth Association, and PLACED.

Co-curators Lucía Sanromán and Aimee Harrison emphasize the importance of centering the perspectives of children and young people in the Biennial. Sanromán states, “Artists in the exhibition give us insights into the imagination of childhood, spurring us to boldly ask for a better future,” highlighting the urgency of responding to young people’s calls for their voices to be taken seriously in political decision-making. Harrison adds, “Our Biennial is truly grounded in the experiences of children and young people,” naming projects like the Williamson Square artwork as key reminders of their vital role in shaping cultural and creative practices today and in the years ahead.

Liverpool Biennial stands as the UK’s largest free contemporary art festival, bringing vibrant, dynamic programming to various venues across the city, from galleries to historic buildings and unexpected spaces. Partnering with institutions including Bluecoat, FACT Liverpool, Open Eye Gallery, and the Walker Art Gallery, the festival continues to transform Liverpool through art while offering a rich array of free public events, performances, and community activities each summer. Further venue announcements are expected in Spring 2027 as preparations continue