We're excited to share the independent evaluation for Liverpool Biennial 2025 'BEDROCK', compiled by The Audience Agency.
Since its beginnings in 1998 Liverpool Biennial has presented work by over 590 leading artists from around the world, hosted over 50 million visits and delivered 39 collaborative projects, many with long-lasting social impact. We aim to connect the best of international art and artists to Liverpool for the benefit of everybody who lives, studies, works within and visits our brilliant city.
The 13th edition of Liverpool Biennial, titled ‘BEDROCK’, took place from 7 June – 14 September 2025. Curated by Liverpool-based curator Marie-Anne McQuay, the festival comprised a series of outdoor artworks across the city and free exhibitions in leading arts and cultural venues including Bluecoat, FACT Liverpool, Liverpool Cathedral, Liverpool Central Library, Open Eye Gallery, Tate Liverpool + RIBA North, The Black-E and Walker Art Gallery, alongside exhibitions in unexpected locations including Eurochemist, the grounds of Liverpool John Moores University, Pine Court and SEVENSTORE.
BEDROCK included the work of 30 artists and collectives from around the world, including 22 new commissions, drawing on Liverpool’s distinctive geography and the beliefs and strong civic values which underpin the city.
Across the summer we delivered a dynamic programme of free performances, talks, conferences, tours and events. For families, schools and the wider community, the 2025 Learning Programme included a Children’s Guide, wellbeing routes to navigate the Biennial and free family workshops inspired by the work of Biennial artists at Liverpool Central Library.
Many thanks to our key supporters Arts Council England, Liverpool City Council and Culture Liverpool, UK Trusts and Foundations, International Agencies, and corporate supporters, as well as individuals from our Collector, Director and Commissioning Circles for their ongoing support.
We look forward to welcoming you to Liverpool Biennial 2027!
We believe that Liverpool Biennial should be a ‘Biennial for Everyone’, providing a programme of ground-breaking, intriguing, and free art for all.
Help us keep Liverpool Biennial free, for you and everyone. We ask those who can, to donate.
Attendance
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154,569 visitors
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1,391,730 visits
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43% were first-time visitors
Economic Impact
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£17.4 million
Impact on Liverpool
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97% agreed that it's important for Liverpool to stage events like this
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95% agreed LB has a positive impact on the city's cultural offer
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70% are more likely to visit Liverpool again because of their experience
Impact on Audiences
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94% found LB2025 welcoming
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93% rated the quality of LB2025 'good' or 'very good'
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66% agreed that LB2025 had a strong impact on their sense of wellbeing
Audience Location
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38% travelled from within the local area (Liverpool City Region)
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26% travelled from other areas of the UK
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23% travelled internationally
Travel
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44% planned their trip to Liverpool specifically for Liverpool Biennial
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96% of visitors travelled between venues on foot
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42% of visitors travelled to LB2025 by train