LIFF 2026: Open Call for Leeds-Based Artists
This year we celebrate the 40th anniversary edition of Leeds International Film Festival (LIFF), one of the largest events of its kind in the UK. Also this year, Leeds celebrates 400 years since receiving its first Royal Charter from King Charles I in 1626, the beginning of the city’s journey towards self-governance and city status.
As part of our activities for this special year, we are launching an open call for a Leeds-based artist to create the official artwork for LIFF 2026. This paid opportunity will greatly increase awareness for the work of a local artist, with their artwork appearing on the front cover of the LIFF printed guide, on digital and physical advertising, on our website, in our venues, and more. This will also help to bring national and international visibility to the fantastic creative talent that Leeds has to offer.
Brief
We want to commission striking and vibrant artwork that represents a celebration of film, festivals, Leeds, and the history of the city and LIFF, and reflects the diversity and global scope of the LIFF programme. Additionally, you can consider for your idea some of the reasons why our audience loves LIFF, including: escaping in the world of film with us; the communal, friendly and inclusive experience; the huge variety of films that they can’t see otherwise; and that it takes place in the autumn/November. Also, the owl is the symbol of Leeds and is associated with LIFF.
Links for reference:
LIFF 2025 Guide
Previous artwork commission for the 30th anniversary
LIFF social media: @leedsfilmfest on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
How to apply, timeline and fees
Please submit a short summary of your idea for the commission, a link to your online portfolio of existing work, contact details, and confirmation that you are an artist living or working in Leeds by Thursday 30 April on the following form: https://forms.gle/Tf1zpriGX7cUmnmy6
If you have any queries, please contact lee.bentham@leeds.gov.uk
Three artists will be shortlisted by Thursday 7 May to develop their ideas further and sketch concept visuals – each shortlisted artist will be paid a fee of £150. We will provide more details about format and inclusion of logos and any text, dates, etc. to the shortlisted artists.
The artist to be commissioned will be selected by Thursday 11 June and the poster is to be completed by Tuesday 30 June. The fee for the commission is £850.
