There’s no denying that Bristol is a pretty creative place. Even its biggest critics couldn’t call it “dull”. There’s art everywhere you turn, but no one has captured the city’s rich cultural offering, diverse culinary scene and world-class events than Real Hackney Dave’s Bristol is Always a Good Idea.
Okay, so excuse the slight hyperbole, but the show-stopping artwork did steal our hearts when it made an appearance at Bristol Light Festival earlier this year – sitting proudly by Valentine Bridge. For those of you who missed it (or maybe just miss it), the beloved light installation is set to return to the city tomorrow (July 9).
This time, the artwork will travel to various iconic locations around the city. It will debut in Millennium Square, before touring different venues around the city – with local businesses able to enter a competition to host this glowing pink reminder of Bristol’s charm.
“Real Hackney Dave’s artwork is a reminder of all the things people love about our city,” said Vicky Lee, Director of Bristol City Centre BID. “Everyone’s reasons for loving the city are so varied—from the many great businesses the city centre is home to, to the beautiful green spaces and huge cultural array of things to do – our summer campaign and the return of this famous Bristol Light Festival artwork is sure to drive footfall into the city centre as visitors and residents come to enjoy their favourite things about Bristol.”
The return of the artwork is meant to kick off a “vibrant Bristol summer” – with incredible events lined up (including Pride, Harbour Festival and Balloon Fiesta), the reopening of We The Curious, and incredible all-year-round restaurants, there’s a lot to enjoy. Plus, so much more to make us proud. No wonder Bristol was recently named one of the happiest cities in the world…
Jon Chamberlain, Head of Marketing at Visit West, said: “We wanted to showcase everything that makes Bristol such a unique and inviting cultural destination. Whether it’s the creativity, attractions, food and drink, events and festivals, or just the amazing people, Bristol really is always a good idea. This is especially true in summer, and Real Hackney Dave’s artwork is a fitting tribute to that.”
In addition to the travelling installation, Bristol Is Always A Good Idea billboards will display iconic scenes throughout the city and beyond. Businesses can apply to host the artwork by sharing why they think “Bristol is always a good idea” and outlining where they would display the installation here.