Events this week in Rochdale

Striking paintings and prints from the Art Gallery collection made by artists in the 1970s.

The collection is strong in work from this decade and the exhibition will include works by artists such as Gillian Ayres, Adrian Berg and Frank Auerbach.

The changing face of Rochdale Borough in the 1970s.

A nostalgic look at the 1970s, a vibrant decade packed with cultural innovation and social change.

With family friendly activities and objects from the museum and local studies collections, take a step back to a funkier time.

A selection of contemporary prints that showcase the work of members of Hot Bed Press and reflect the diverse nature of printmaking itself providing a contemporary counterpoint to the 70s prints on dislpay in Gallery Two.

Based in Salford, Hot Bed Press is the largest open access print workshop in the region and has members from  the whole of Greater Manchester and the North West.

Inspired by the innovative street art space at Sudden Roundabout in Rochdale, this exhibition will tell the story of how the space was first created and explore different styles of urban art. 

Site specific pieces will be created inside the gallery. Artists include: Zielone, Leo, Liam, Laurie Pink, Hanal, Jamshad Miah, Tramp Collective, Natalie Sharp, Lints, 45rpm and The Amazing Sharp.

The Holiday Quiz. Drop in during normal opening hours - no need to book. Complete the quiz and get your chance to be entered into the free prize draw to win a £25 gift voucher.

Throughout the season, FREE sessions, but must be booked in advance. Local Studies run various workshops on family and local history in the Local Studies Centre and in community venues. The staff are also available to advise you in your research when you visit.

The 7th Annual Littleborough Open Arts Festival and Photographic Competition is to take place between 31st August and 7th September at the Coach House, Littleborough. This year the extended festival will include a wider variety of art. Arts Festival Chair, Richard Cafiero said “The Committee are working hard to ensure that this years Arts Festival appeals to a wider audience. In particular we are seeking to encourage people to participate by arranging a variety of workshops”.

There will also as part of the extended Arts Festival be the photographic competition, this year’s theme being Byways and Waterways.

The closing date for the submission of entry forms for both the Open Arts Exhibition and Photographic Competition is the 15th August 2008. Entry Forms are available at the Coach House, Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre, Touchstones Gallery or by contacting Richard on 01282 779281

Free

Now in it's 7th year, this successful event attracts artists and visitors from all over the U.K. Open to artists of all levels. This week long event aims to promote art within the local community and provide selling opportunities for artists.