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The Sheffield culture guide written by in-the-know locals

Festival of the Mind

Amazing work goes on behind university walls. New ideas constantly bounce from one laboratory or seminar room to the next. With a little help from Sheffield's creative community, that work and those ideas are let loose in the city throughout the Festival of the Mind.

Every other autumn, academic and creative minds from Sheffield come together to host exhibitions, talks, screenings, performances and more, in venues across the city. Past editions of Festival of the Mind have also brought to town a Spiegeltent, a glorious 18th century structure that's acted as the festival's hub.

Come back soon to find out what's in store for the next Festival of the Mind in autumn 2026.

In the meantime, keep an eye on the festival's Facebook page for updates.

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Exhibition on Screen: James McNeill Whistler

Tue. 15 September 2026 — Sun. 20 September 2026

Showroom

In an era of great change and great beauty emerged the character of James McNeill Whistler.

Only Flans... The Second Serving

Sat. 12 September 2026

CADS, Arley Street, S2 4QP

An unpredictable mix of drag, movement artists and improvised music in celebration of cake. In a three-part narrative arc exploring desire, creation and gluttony.

99 Mary Street

Along the cobbles of Mary Street you’ll find this gallery and event space run by design studio DED Associates. DED occasionally transform part of their studio into The Viewing Room, hosting pop art exhibitions. Look out for upcoming events.

Bouchra

Mon. 24 August 2026 — Tue. 25 August 2026

Showroom

A queer Moroccan coyote in NYC starts having difficult, long-overdue phone calls with her mother, that influence her filmmaking project. This striking animation from artists Meriem Bennani and Orian Barki blends documentary, art and family drama.