At the end of May, we hosted Echo, a day bringing together artists from Bristol and Bordeaux as part of the city’s international twinning partnership.
What started earlier this year as a simple introduction has quickly grown into something much bigger. Echo was the first chance to bring people together in the same space, to share work, spend time together and see what might come next.
“We never dreamed that those first conversations would result in us hosting such an exciting and beautiful event here at Trinity – one that celebrated the rich cultural heritage of our city while welcoming some of the most talented emerging artists from our new friends in Bordeaux.”
- Adam Gallacher, Deputy CEO
Across the day, people moved between workshops, performances and conversations, with artists from both cities sharing ideas and getting to know each other.
One of the highlights was a drop‑in workshop led by Colourful Minds, where people of all ages created collage buildings inspired by Bristol and Bordeaux. Using cardboard, paint and coloured paper, participants added to a growing skyline that brought both cities together in one shared piece. The idea came from earlier work with local school pupils, and it was great to see it opened up to families on the day.
There was a steady flow of people, with children, parents and artists all taking part. Some stayed for hours, others dropped in briefly, but it all added to the same feeling. People were relaxed, curious and open to trying something new.
Throughout the day, English and French could be heard across the building. Conversations didn’t always need translation. A lot of it happened through making, performing and spending time together.
“The artists absolutely loved performing at Trinity, and they really enjoyed discovering the city as well. It was their first time performing in England, which made the experience particularly meaningful and symbolic for them. Thank you all for such a warm welcome. We really enjoyed the event too.”
- Emma Asensio, Le Rocher de Palmer
Echo felt like a starting point. It gave space for people to meet properly and begin building relationships that go beyond a single event.
“We learned a huge amount from both the event itself and the build‑up to it. It’s definitely helped me better understand what Twin Cities is becoming and how we can continue developing the platform moving forward. So thank you all again for that.”
- Ed Findlay, Founder, Twin Cities Limited
In September, artists from Bristol will travel to Bordeaux to continue that exchange and develop the work further.
Thank you to everyone who made the day happen, and to everyone who came along and took part. This is just the beginning.
This event was supported by the Bristol Bordeaux Partnership (BBP), which supports and amplifies the many links between the two cities. The BPP works alongside counterparts l'Association Bordeaux Bristol and both City Councils.
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