We have been working with some incredible young poets and musicians over the past six months who, with the help of partner organisations The Space and filmmakers Neon8, have transformed their art into a series virtual reality films. The group, known as ‘The Pulse of Bradford’ are now ready to debut their creations. Here is a little more information about the project…
The Pulse of Bradford have captured the past, present and future in a collection of poems and music.
Three young poets and two musicians aged 16-24, produced original work around the theme of ‘the sounds of the city.’
The group, known as The Pulse of Bradford, worked alongside Halifax poet Gaia Holmes to share their thoughts and feelings about the city with the aim of inviting audiences to see the city through their eyes and give voice to the future of the district.
Their work has now been captured on camera by Virtual Reality filmmakers Neon8 and will feature in a Virtual Reality Tour due to be held at Bradford Libraries from January 30-February 8.
Bradford is one of the nine library services in England selected to participate in the groundbreaking Digital Spaces program. This innovative initiative in collaboration with Arts Council England, BFI, with National Lottery Funding, and The Space, is delivering an array of digital experiences in libraries throughout 2025, ranging from awe-inspiring VR showcases and hands-on workshops to funding opportunities for creating new digital content.
The poems, which were written over a number of weeks, speak to the ‘thousand voices of Bradford’ as well as the delights of Lister Park and the isolation of modern-day life. They feature alongside a live piano performance and a specially composed electronic music piece, which also respond to the theme.
Each artist was asked to choose their favourite spot to be filmed in, creating a virtual map of the district.
Among the venues chosen were Lister Park, Cliffe Castle, Sunbridge Road Mission Church, Sunbridge Road and Pied Piper Pianos in Haworth.
Poet Alfie Wilson said: “It has been amazing to work with like-minded people. Gaia has been incredible in mentoring us and helping us develop our own style. Everyone’s work is so unique and explores all the different things that make Bradford the place that it is. I’ve really enjoyed the whole experience and can’t wait to see the films.”
The films will be shown at the following libraries.
Friday, Jan 30 – Tues Feb 3 – Manningham Library
Wednesday Feb 4 – Keighley Library
Thursday Feb 5 – Ilkley Library
Friday Feb 6 – Shipley Library
Saturday Feb 7 – City Library
They will also feature in a celebration and Open Mic due to be held at City Library on Saturday Feb 7 at 6pm. Poets and musicians, eager to perform are asked to email Andrea.Hardaker@bradford.gov.uk to book a slot.
