One of the biggest fashion events of the year takes place today, and it's happening just across the Pennines in Manchester.
If you're a fan of fashion, or just a fan of the internet, then you'll be well aware of the excitement buzzing around Manchester this week.
One of the biggest fashion houses in the world, Chanel, will be holding their Winter fashion show in Manchester today and it's fair to say that there have been a fair few celebrity sightings.
And although they most definitely have chosen the wrong northern city, we can't help but get a bit excited about what's going on just across the Pennines.
Kim Kardashian was spotted at Old Trafford last night, and there's been sightings of the Hollywood legend Brad Pitt kicking around the Manchester cobbles.
Actor Kristen Stewart was spotted leaving The Stock Exchange Hotel, Gary Neville’s five-star establishment earlier this week, the same hotel which hosted singer Post Malone last year.
Many other names have been thrown around when it comes to guests attending the Metiers D’Art fashion show.
The biggest name drop so far is Margot Robbie, Australian actress and star of this summer’s runaway box office hit Barbie. Margot has famously been one of Chanel’s most recognisable ambassadors, so it wouldn't be out of the question for her to walk the streets of the Northern Quarter today.
The brand’s other famous faces include fellow actor Timothee Chalamet, who is the ambassador for Bleu De Chanel, and also tipped to be visiting Manchester this week.
Image: Instagram
There are currently huge billboards plastered with his face all over the city centre.
Some of the most famous celebrities in the entire world have been in the UK for various events in the last week, including Beyonce and Jay-Z, and Taylor Swift. Will any of them extend their stay to come up north?
And then there are those with a local connection, like for Manchester United legend David Beckham, with high-fashion wife and Spice Girl Victoria Beckham.
Harry Styles could crop up too, with his roots just down the road in Cheshire.
We'll be waiting patiently to see who crops up and steps on Manchester territory, but we're just hoping that they'll host the show in Leeds next year.
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Art & Culture
A breathtaking giant sculpture of the sun has arrived in Yorkshire for the summer
Clementine Hall
A giant model of the sun is now illuminated in Wakefield.
The sun has arrived in Wakefield… and we’re not just referring to that one that’s popped up in the sky at long last (sort of).
We’re taking about Helios, the amazing art installation that’s about to stop off at Wakefield Exchange as it tours around the UK.
Created by renowned artist, Luke Jerram, the beautiful art piece measures a whopping seven-metres in diameter and has been created using images captured by NASA.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Helios builds on the success of Luke Jerram’s previous installations in Wakefield, including the hugely popular Museum of the Moon.
With its striking scale and rich scientific detail,the artwork provides a safe and captivating way to encounter the Sun up close, highlighting everything from solar flares to the phenomena that created the unforgettable Northern Lights visible across the UK in 2024.
Stepping beneath the breathtaking glowing sculpture, audiences can experience an atmospheric fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially commissioned surround‑sound composition that brings the science and mystery of our nearest star vividly to life.
Alongside the striking sun instillation, Wakefield Exchange will present a full programme of free, family‑friendly, space‑themed activities throughout the summer.
Visitors can enjoy hands‑on workshops, creative crafts, dressing‑up sessions and playful drop‑in experiences.
Helios will be hosted by Wakefield Exchange from Friday 12 June until Sunday 6 September 2026, and you can find out more here on their website.
Clementine Hall -
7th December 2023 
