Artist Joy Akpokiniovo outside Centurion House, Manchester. Credit: Joy Akpokiniovo
Black History Month celebrations have ended in Manchester after a busy few weeks of events such as art exhibitions and performances across the city throughout October.
This year’s theme was ‘Honouring Our Communities’ which featured an art trail across the city centre of the same name, created by Manchester-based company Black Creative Trailblazers.
The trail was created in partnership with HOME Arches, Bruntwood, The Lowry Hotel, and more venues, totalling 8 stops.
A collection of art in No. 3 Circle Square, Manchester
The range of events linked to this year’s theme set out to recognise individuals’ work that goes unseen and commemorate history.
Official supporters of Black History Month 2026 include Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Age UK, and the Royal Air Force.
Within the trail, Black Creative Trailblazers aimed to celebrate shared experiences, belonging, and connection. They wanted to put the spotlight on 23 different artists and their perspectives.
Photography by Mux Imagery in HOME Arches, Manchester
UK-based visual artist Joy Akpokiniovo took part, exploring themes of identity, culture, heritage, memory and human connection in her art.
Akpokiniovo said: “I believe events like the trail are important because they make art more accessible and allow the wider community to engage with different perspectives, provide visibility and recognition for artists, and discover the power of creativity in bringing people together.”
Artwork by Joy Akpokiniovo on display at Centurion House, Manchester. Credit: Joy Akpokiniovo
Other events include a photography exhibition at Aviva Studios by Cephas Williams running from 2nd October to 1st November, focusing on the different roles people play in our community.
Portrait “A Crown of Her Own” by Damaris Edey, on display at HOME Arches, Manchester
Damaris Edey, self-taught artist whose portrait “A Crown of Her Own” was on display in HOME arches, said: “My portrait is inspired by my Caribbean heritage, and also carnival. It’s about expressing who you want to be with no kinds of rules or regulations.
“The message of the trail is to just enjoy other cultures, embrace them, and I hope people leave curious to find out more. Manchester doesn’t have enough representation. It was lovely to know other creatives from Manchester and build the creative community up, expand it.”
‘Honouring Our Communities’ poster at No.3 Circle Square, Manchester
The first Black History Month in the UK was celebrated in 1987, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the Caribbean. It was created to celebrate and understand the importance of black culture.
Akpokiniovo said: “I hope visitors leave with a greater appreciation of the richness of our cultures, the importance of community and the different stories that contribute to who we are. Your perspective, experiences and stories are what make your work unique.”
