The Artists of the Future competition will see winning artwork displayed on the outdoor gallery of Therme Manchester, the UK’s first urban wellbeing resort currently under construction at TraffordCity.
Hoardings around the construction site will be transformed into a vibrant, large-scale public exhibition space featuring the selected designs.
Katie Mason, inclusion and disability co-ordinator at Gorse Hill Studios, said: “It’s fantastic to see young people being given opportunities like this right on their doorstep.
“Art can be a real confidence-builder and seeing children’s work celebrated publicly shows them that their ideas matter.
“Projects like Artists of the Future don’t just brighten up the area – they help young people feel proud of where they’re from and excited about what they can create.”
Therme Manchester will feature biodiverse gardens, immersive art, thermal experiences, and family-focused leisure spaces, all designed to make wellbeing accessible to all.
The company is partnering with Trafford and Salford city councils to deliver positive social impact through the development, including jobs, apprenticeships, and community projects.
The art competition is part of Therme Manchester’s social value plans.
Artists of the Future is being developed in partnership with Gorse Hill Studios, a Trafford-based youth arts charity, with Barton Clough Primary School and St Monica’s Primary School in Trafford.
Arts Let Loose CIC in Swinton is also taking part.
Rob Creber, head of social value and partnerships at Therme UK, said: “Therme Manchester is about wellbeing, community and connection.
“The Artists of the Future competition allows us to celebrate young creativity and give local children the chance to inspire us all and leave their mark on one of the region’s most exciting developments.”
Winners will be entered into a raffle for the chance to win a family trip to Therme Bucharest in Romania in spring 2026.
READ MORE:
Everyone who takes part will be invited to a celebratory event at Gorse Hill Studios centred on art, food, and wellbeing.
A panel of three judges, including Manchester-based artist and TV critic Helena Worthington, international street artist AKSE-P19, and Roksanna Ciurysek-Gedir of Therme Art, will choose the winning designs.
Winners will be announced later this month.
