Faces of Bradford: Then and Now is a compelling photo exhibition bridging the past and present by local artist Laura Mate.

Ilkley Manor House is proud to present Faces of Bradford: Then and Now, a powerful photo exhibition by photographer Laura Mate, curated and and produced by Andreea Chitan-Woodier.

Showcasing a series of paired portraits, capturing Bradford residents 25 years ago in 2000 when Laura first attended Bradford Art College, alongside new portraits from the past year, these striking side-by-side images document the city’s evolution, offering insight into both individual experiences and the collective vibrancy that defines Bradford today.

The exhibition highlights the strength, resilience, and cultural richness of the people who have shaped the district over the years and is part of the Bradford 2025 City of Culture initiative, celebrating the city’s rich heritage and cultural diversity through portrait photography.

By bridging Bradford’s past and present, Faces of Bradford: Then and Now invites audiences to reflect on the city’s transformation and celebrate its multicultural identity. It fosters dialogue, learning, and connection, encouraging Ilkley residents to engage with and appreciate the diverse communities that make up the region.

Laura said: “Bradford has captivated me since my Art College days in 1999. As the UK’s youngest city, its energy, diversity, and creativity set it apart. A true cultural melting pot, it thrives on community-driven projects. I believe photography can break barriers, challenge perceptions, and reshape how Bradford is seen and understood.”

Through Faces of Bradford: Then and Now, the exhibition captures the essence of the city—its people and ever-evolving cultural landscape. With Mate’s compelling portraiture and Chitan-Woodier’s thoughtful curation, it offers a deeper insight into Bradford’s identity, fostering appreciation and leaving a lasting impression both within the city and beyond.

Curator and producer Andreea Chitan-Woodier, a Romanian immigrant who has made West Yorkshire and Bradford her home, sees this project as deeply personal.

She said: “As someone who has made this region my home, I feel a profound connection to the themes of identity, belonging, and migration woven throughout this exhibition. Bradford’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and cultural vibrancy, and Laura has captured it masterfully through her portraits.”

The exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, history, and the people who bring a place to life.

The exhibition runs from March 1st to 23rd at Ilkley Manor House and entry is free.

You can see more of Laura’s work at lauramate.com or follow her on instagram @_lauramate