Students taking creative lead in culture city
BBCPupils in Bradford have drawn inspiration from 2025 UK City of Culture events as they put their art skills to the test.
Groups from schools around the district took part in a competition run by non-profit organisation Ahead Partnership on Friday.
Speaking to the BBC, students said they were inspired by the cultural events in and around the city and that they have been encouraged to pursue their own creative ambitions.
Dance enthusiast Eve from Baildon's Titus Salt School said seeing an upcoming production of Swan Lake in Bradford would be "inspiring".
"I think it's exciting because I do really like dance and loads of different styles of it, so seeing more of it will be exciting," she said.
"I do think dance is something I would pursue."
She added: "It's inspiring that you can see something you don't normally see."
Mariah, a student at Hanson Academy, took her opportunity to present the benefits of diversity to other students at the event.
"There are so many events going on which allows people to come together and learn more about different cultures," she said.
"It gives people an opportunity to participate in these events and have fun."
Interested in film and media industry, Mariah said seeing local filmmakers be celebrated had encouraged her.
She said: "With all these events that I've been attending, it makes me want to become a movie director more.
"It motivates me to make my own movie one day."
Max Robinson, an assistant head at Titus Salt School, said: "I think it has made them proud of where they live as well and they wanted to make something that represents that.
"I think if you asked a few years ago, 'do you want to create something that represents this city?' they wouldn't have found that as easy, or perhaps be as passionate about it."
He added: "A lot of our students have gone to the big events in the city centre and the football club is doing really well as well.
"There's a lot of pride in the city and a lot of competitions they're wanting to take part in."
A full list of upcoming events for UK City of Culture can be found on its website.
Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.