South Asian Art Exhibition Sparks Fresh Buzz at Bradford Gallery

Cartwright Hall Art Gallery in Bradford is hosting a major exhibition called UnLayering the Future Past of South Asia. This exhibition features the work of artists from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The show first opened in London in 2025, but it was specially changed for Bradford. The organizers wanted to make the exhibition connect with the city’s history, especially its past as the wool capital of the UK. That is why there are many textile-based artworks in the show. These pieces are made from fabric and cloth, and they are arranged in creative ways on the walls.

The co-curator, Manmeet Walia, explained that the exhibition explores shared histories across South Asia. The artists use textiles, film, collage, and video to talk about important topics like migration, environmental change, gender inequality, and the legacy of empire. Walia said that these themes are important to many people in Bradford, especially those with South Asian backgrounds. Many families in Bradford have stories about moving to the UK and working in textile mills. The exhibition helps people see their own history and culture in the art.

The exhibition has been very successful in bringing new visitors to Cartwright Hall. James Steward, who manages the museums and galleries for Bradford Council, said that there has been a 40 percent increase in visitors compared to last year. Visitor surveys and local talks showed that the UnLayering exhibition was especially good at reaching new audiences. Walia said that she spoke to many local people, including women, mall workers, and Uber drivers. Many of them said they had never visited Cartwright Hall before, even though they went to Lister Park. Now, more people are interested in coming to the gallery to see the art. The exhibition will be open until 31 August, giving everyone a chance to learn about South Asian art and history.