On Saturday, 8th March, Printworks will mark International Women’s Day with a UK-first event: a 1,000m² digital art installation spanning 115 metres, honouring women of Manchester. The awe-inspiring digital art showcase will illuminate the stories of local women on Europe’s largest digital ceiling, creating a mesmerising visual celebration of identity, empowerment and representation.
In addition to the groundbreaking art display, Printworks will host a special one-day Makers Market, running from 12–4pm. This market will spotlight Manchester’s incredible female-led businesses such as Stardust Bakery, Koala Nala, Sealed Links, Root 2 Ginger, and Oak Apple Plants. To complete the atmosphere, DJ Sez Benny and tarot card reader Solar Sister will add their own flair to the event.
The digital art installation is created by renowned Manchester-based artist Laura Frances Heitzman. Known for her bold, bright and empowering creations, Heitzman will bring to life the portraits of inspiring women aged 14-70 years old, set against the backdrop of iconic Manchester locations like Castlefield, Stockport Underbanks, Ancoats Marina and more.
Laura shared her excitement: “Illustrating real women from Manchester and bringing their stories to life in this way has been an incredible privilege. This installation is about identity, empowerment, and representation, and I can’t wait for people to experience it.”
The International Women’s Day celebration continues with exclusive perks throughout Printworks’ venues, offering free gym passes at Nuffield Health, discounted prosecco at Bierkeller, 2-for-1 cocktails at Tanks and Paddle, a complimentary karaoke session at Trax Social and a free game of bowling at Tenpin between 10am and 12pm – ensuring a full day of empowering celebrations and experiences.
Kristian Brennan, Marketing Manager at Printworks, said: “This isn’t just an art installation – it’s a statement. We’re merging technology, storytelling, and art to celebrate women of Manchester. With Europe’s largest digital ceiling as the canvas, we’re making sure their voices and stories are seen on a grand scale on International Women’s Day.”
This groundbreaking moment in digital storytelling is set to be a must-see experience, placing Manchester at the heart of a UK-wide conversation about female empowerment, representation, and innovation in public art.
