For the first time at The Biscuit Factory we bring together a solo show of ceramics, linocuts and paintings by artist Hilke MacIntrye.

Born in Germany, Hilke studied architecture at the College for Art & Design in Kiel, then worked across different architectural practices before moving to Scotland in 1995. Since then, Hilke has focused on printmaking, ceramics and painting. Her simplified figurative work, with bold shapes, strong colours and abstract pattern reflects varied influences including ‘primitive’ and folk art styles, early 20th Century European art and contemporary design.

Whichever medium Hilke works in, she builds layers of color and pattern searching for unpredictable and unexpected combinations.

Kirsty Adams is an award-winning ceramicist, making wheel-thrown pieces for the home for over twenty years. She originally trained at Brighton Art College, and then on the potters’ wheel in Japan.

Kirsty recently designed a bespoke range for the National Trust's Artisan and Craft Collection. She is a selected member of Design-Nation UK and Society of Designer Craftsmen and has been selected by the Michelangelo Foundation as a Master Artisan for their prestigious and globally renowned Homo Faber Guide.

This showcase presents limited edition, one-off and upscaled pieces from three of her prestigious collections taking influence from Iceland, Japan and Northumberland.

Inspired by big skies and open spaces Laura paints beautiful abstract landscapes. This - her first large scale solo exhibition at the gallery - is an opportunity for visitors to enjoy a broader selection of these ethereal works presented in her signature dreamlike soft pastel colour palette.

"Encountering beauty in wild, open spaces, where the vast sky stretches to the horizon, has given me sanctuary and peace in stormy seasons. In beautiful places I have found hope again."

Laura will open her exhibition as part of Late Shows on 17 May with live painting in the gallery

REGISTER TO STAY UP TO DATE WITH LAURA'S COLLECTION

Threads in the Ground is a climate hope organisation. Their latest project is a collaboration with The Biscuit Factory and Forum Books, taking recycled cardboard and adding a mycelium spore to create a new product - one that has the potential to replace polystyrene or be kiln baked to become weatherproof.

Using this material they are creating a pop-up bookshop - designed by Architects at Heatherwick Studio - which launches at THE LATE SHOWS on the 17 May. This pop-up structure will become a venue for a month-long programme of talks and curated book selection.

Curated by internationally bestselling local author LJ Ross, meet some real-life heroes who represent the unique spirit and heart of the North East. A collection of inspirational North Easterners captured by professional portrait photographer Donna-Lisa Healy.

The North East Heroes exhibition opeing is also part of Late Shows on 17 May. Find out more about Late Shows below:

We last welcomed the New Light Prize Exhibition in 2021 (delayed from 2020) and are thrilled to once again exhibit over 100 works from the best of Northern talent. This year includes a Sculpture Prize, exclusive to The Biscuit Factory!

REGISTER TO STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE NEW LIGHT COLLECTION

We are so thrilled that Abir Mukherjee with be joining us in May this celebrate the publication of his new book HUNTED.

'A pretty much flawless thriller ... terrific characters are subtly and mercilessly pushed along by a plot as propulsive as it is constantly surprising.' LEE CHILD

Anna Jones joins us in conversation with The Cook House and Long Friday's Anna Hedworth; discussing her brand new release 'Easy Wins'.

Taking 12 hero ingredients, Jones' new book reveals 125 all-new dishes that you will want to cook on repeat: ‘For when it’s 8pm, you’re starving and you want a Tuesday night triumph. An easy, honest, delicious win’ Yotam Ottolenghi

An evening of connection, community and climate hope. Experience our life sized pop up bookshop made up of eco material found in fungus. Surrounded by her headline collection Finding Hope, watch Northern artist Laura Pedley live paint, enjoy portraiture photography exhibition North East Heroes selected by internationally bestselling local author LJ Ross, listen to folk duo Miggins Fiddle perform original arrangements of traditional tunes and songs from Northumberland and beyond and shop sustainably with RE:BOURN a special pre-owned clothing pop up in our brand new space The Garden Room. Gather and round your night off with locally sourced food and drink at The Factory Kitchen Supper Club

Enjoy an evening of wonderful food and wine at our upcoming Supper Club, as part of The Late Shows surrounded by contemporary artwork and panoramic views of the Ouseburn.

Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a unique dining experience, join us on the 17th May 2024 for a curated menu by Head Chef Michael Waugh.

Tables must be reserved in advance. See the menu and book below!

Programmed especially by the team at Tyneside to celebrate Mushroom Sculpt at The Biscuit Factory!

Narrated by Björk, and presented by acclaimed British biologist and author Dr. Merlin Sheldrake, this stunningly captured short documentary spotlights the vital role of fungi in our ecosystem. Join thier quest to find an incredibly precious blue mushroom, against the backdrop of Tasmania’s ancient Tarkine rainforest. Merlin will show us some the grandest and strangest organisms ever discovered, showcased through jaw-dropping time-lapse cinematography, in a landscape largely unchanged from the time of the dinosaurs.

Design Festival North offers a unique opportunity for Architecture and Design professionals to connect and interact with both familiar and fresh suppliers, in a laid-back setting. It’s like having their showroom come directly to you.

You’ll have the opportunity to speak to suppliers one-to-one about NEW products and technology, and how to go about integrating their products into your designs. Plus you can chat with fellow professionals in a relaxed social environment.