IOU50 Exhibition & Hostel Open Day

As part of this year’s Hebden Bridge Open Studios, IOU invites you to the IOU Hostel for 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 programme brings together art, nature and creative exploration for artists, families and visitors of all ages.

All events are FREE but booking is required for certain workshops see our website for full details 

Events include : 

Friday 3 July 

12.00-2.00pm Artist Workshop — 'A Shared Garden' 

A multimedia art workshop led by 2023 IOU Artist in Residence Alicja Mrozowska.

This calm, low-pressure session uses still life and natural forms as a starting point for painting and drawing.
Booking essential as spaces are limited BOOK HERE 

2.00-5.00pm IOU Active Hub E-Bike Session

Curious about E-bikes - come along and have a go with our friendly and experienced team
Drop in session, no booking required 

Saturday 4 July 
11.00-3.00pm Artist Workshop- 'Touch, Thread, and Sound'

Nature-inspired interactive crafts, led by current IOU Artist in Residence Nat Whitney

This drop-in workshop will explore bringing craft, nature and technology together through playful interaction, inviting you to create an interactive soft sculpture inspired by the natural world and its sounds.
Drop in session, no booking required 

1.00-2.30pm- IOU Active Hub – Nature Notebooking with Mel Davies

Guided walk – exploring place, plants, and the joy of noticing with Mel from Hey Nature.

Booking essential as spaces are limited - BOOK HERE 

Sunday 5 July 

11.00-3.00pm Artist Workshop - Nature Willow Sculptures. 

A drop-in workshop led by 2023 IOU Artist in Residence Stewart Knights (esK).

Drop in session, no booking required 

11.00-4.00pm Flock Speakers in Nutclough Woods

Experience an ambient sound installation created by artist Brian Acton, featuring 16 synchronised 3D-printed speakers playing an immersive composition inspired by woodland, technology and the human voice. Set within Nutclough Woods, the installation offers a unique way to experience sound and landscape together. 

Drop in session, no booking required

12.00-1.00pm IOU Active Hub – Nutclough Woods Sound Walk – Families

2.00-3.00pm IOU Active Hub – Nutclough Woods Sound Walk – Adults

Join us for a guided walk through Nutclough Woods led by Jane from Sowerby Bridge Walkers.

Along the route, you’ll encounter artist Brian Acton’s Flock speaker installation — an immersive woodland soundscape designed to encourage deep listening and closer attention to the natural environment.

Slow down, listen carefully, and experience Nutclough Woods in a completely new way.

Please book 

Across the weekend 

IOU50 Exhibition