You’re warmly invited to In Solitude, Fantasies & Becoming, a solo exhibition by Oshorenoya Francis David at 1853 Studios, Mill 1 Gallery, Osborne Mill, Oldham, Manchester.

Rooted in his lived experience as a Nigerian immigrant in the UK, after moving to pursue a better life and completing his Master’s degree, he chose to remain and continue growing both as an artist and as an individual. Through his work, Oshorenoya documents intimate moments of solitude, spaces shaped by reflection, emotional struggle, resilience, and self-discovery.

Living away from family and navigating life independently, his journey is marked by both vulnerability and strength, capturing the reality of becoming. The exhibition also reflects his dreams and aspirations, painting visions of success, longing, and future possibilities.

Ultimately, his works reveal how solitude can become a powerful force in shaping identity and personal transformation.

1853 Studios & Gallery proudly presents Peripheries, a group exhibition featuring Rabia Begum, Thomas Bradley, Rio Darwin, Kamil Duda, Daisy Fulton, Gemma Lees, Mahrokh Mofid Nakhaei, and Iqra Tariq

A solo exhibition by Kim Hubball in Mill 2 Gallery exploring colour, shape and play.

A major solo exhibition by Manchester based artist Akinyemi Oludele, featuring a selection of personal works with a particular focus on 3D and rythm.

A Stand and Be Counted Theatre production. Supported by Sheffield Theatres, Oldham Coliseum, Bloc Projects and 1853 Studios, with funding from Arts Council England.

Over 30 performances and workshops throughout the week both at 1853 Studios and other venues across Oldham!

Solo exhibition by artist Chidimma Urunwa Ikegwuonu. This new body of work highlights what it means to carry dreams - especially as a woman shaped by culture, tradition, and personal history. This exhibition navigates the space between where we come from and where we hope to go.

A post-residency exhibition by Scott Brown, exploring the return to his home town (Oldham) through painting, photography, collage and sculpture.

A solo exhibition of paintings by 1853 resident artist Andy Graham

A group exhibition at 1853 Studios, bringing together the work of three emerging artists: Kelan Andrews, Nicky Nadine and Qianjie Nie

A solo exhibition by Benjamin Sebastian exploring heritage, (de)colonialism and identity through stitch, collage, 3D and video.

An exhibition showcasing collaborative artworks created by Jamie Kirk and Sam Owen Hull during a two-month postal exchange, alongside individual solo works.

Melange: A solo exhibition by local artist and 1853 Studios resident Bill Eiffert.

A collective exhibition of emerging artists Rio Darwin, Cain Casson and Pearl Thompson honouring the Pagan celebration of Spring.

Lingua Franca World Community CIC present an exhibition showcasing local women and the women who have inspired them.

RIPPED is an exploration of female strength; both literal, physical and domestic. Featuring the work of artists Helen Davies and Wendy Roby.