Battling it out in the round with 30 minutes on the clock, 10 of Greater Manchester’s top painters, illustrators and street artists will go head-to-head against each other. Each will be given a blank canvas to create a masterpiece will crowds watch the action before crowning the champion for the night.  

G​ranted special one-off access to the future Stopford Park regeneration masterplan, Art Battle will take over the former Grade II listed college building before it returns as ‘Cheers and Smith’ a coworking space, named after the building’s original architects.  

Thanks to​ sponsorship from Totally Stockport, Art Battle will play true to the back-to-school theme and the incredible setting (yes, there’s still roller chalk boards up along with the stunning original Pilkington tiles), with a few additional treats lined up, including a tuck-shop.  

The immersive event will celebrate Stockport’s vibrant music and food culture with local DJs and food traders such as legendary Polish bakery Sticky Fingers and Café San Juan. Keeping the drinks flowing, Stockport’s very own Runaway Brewery, Stockport Gin and Cherry Jam will each have pop-up bars.  

Bringing the event to life, the multi-talented DJ and broadcaster Hattie Pearson will be the host.  

John Macaulay, Co-Founder of Art Battle MCR said: “Having never used the same building twice, we’re always on the lookout for somewhere to do battle with bags of character and history in the walls. The tiny window of opportunity to get into the magnificent Grade II listed Cheers & Smith building had to be seized. It creates the perfect back drop to see our artists go head-to-head, there’s even a viewing balcony to watch the action from a different viewpoint as it unfolds in front of you. Expect lots of energy, incredible art, good music and Stockport‘s finest indie food and drink for what promises to be an iconic return to Stopford.”  

Shaun Freeman-Jones, BID Manager: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Art Battle once again to bring this vibrant event to such an iconic local venue. When we first brought the Art Battle team to Stockport a few years ago, the creativity and energy they sparked left a lasting impact on the town’s cultural scene. It’s fantastic to see local businesses getting involved once more, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to what promises to be another unforgettable night.”