IOU50 Exhibition & Hostel Open Weekend, 3-5July 2026

As part of Hebden Bridge Open Studios, the IOU Hostel held a weekend of exhibitions, creative workshops, outdoor experiences and conversation.

Marking 50 years of IOU and featuring activities from the IOU Creation Centre and Active Hub, the free programme brought together art, nature and creative exploration for artists, families and visitors of all ages.

Weekend Highlights

Artist in Residence Workshop with Alicja Mrozowska

'A Shared Garden' - a multimedia art workshop. A calm, low-pressure session using still life and natural forms as a starting point for painting and drawing.

IOU Active Hub: Nature Notebooking led by Mel Davie

This relaxed walk invited participants to slow down, tune into the surrounding landscape, and notice the small details -moss, textures, patterns and plant life. 

Creative Socials

Over the weekend there was opportunity to join us for an informal breakfast and an evening social — a chance to meet, network, exchange ideas and share creative practice with fellow artists and makers.

Artist in Residence Workshop with Nat Whitney

'Touch, Thread, and Sound': Nature-Inspired Interactive Crafts workshop explored bringing craft, nature and technology together through playful interaction

Flock Speakers in Nutclough Woods

Ambient sound installation set in Nutclough Woods, featuring 16 synchronised 3D-printed speakers playing an immersive composition created by artists and musician Brian Acton, inspired by woodland, technology and the human voice.