As anticipation builds across the creative sector, the organizers have revealed that the 2027 edition will be bigger and more immersive than ever before. Spanning across two action-packed days, the festival is set to feature more than 20 expert speakers, three dedicated stages, and a variety of hands-on workshops designed to engage attendees at every level of their professional journeys.
The carefully curated schedule of content promises a strong emphasis on diversity of thought and creative excellence. The upcoming talks and presentations have been specifically designed to spark fresh ideas, challenge established perspectives, and inspire the next generation of design creatives. At the same time, the event aims to offer valuable, contemporary insights for seasoned professionals who are already deeply established working within the fast-paced creative industry.
Manchester has long established itself as a thriving hub for design, motion graphics, and digital creativity, and Motion North has consistently served as a vital focal point for this community. By securing Freight Island as the venue for 2027, the festival provides an expansive, dynamic backdrop that blends industrial heritage with modern urban culture, creating an ideal environment for networking, learning, and creative exchange.
The caliber of participants taking the stage in March 2027 highlights the festival’s growing reputation on both a national and international scale. Organizers have confirmed an impressive initial roster of speakers and creative powerhouses who will share their work, processes, and industry insights with the audience.
Among the standout names featured in the 2027 lineup is Found, renowned for pushing the boundaries of digital design and moving imagery. Joining them is Lucas Zanotto, an acclaimed director and designer celebrated for his distinctive aesthetic, playful character animations, and engaging interactive works. Also taking to the stages will be Nice Shit, a multidisciplinary animation and design studio known for its vibrant visual storytelling and artistic versatility.
The lineup further expands with Margherita Premuroso, whose striking visual work and creative direction continue to captivate audiences across various digital mediums. Rounding out this stellar group of announced participants is DNEG, the Academy Award-winning visual effects and animation powerhouse responsible for shaping some of the most visually stunning cinematic experiences in modern entertainment. Together, these speakers represent a broad spectrum of disciplines within the broader design and creative industries, ensuring that attendees will gain insights ranging from high-end visual effects production to independent artistic direction.
In addition to the extensive lineup of talks and workshops, Motion North 2027 is introducing an exciting new feature to the festival landscape: The Marketplace. This newly curated showcase has been established specifically to support independent creators and grassroots talent. Organizers have invited a select group of independent artists to present and sell their unique crafts, bespoke graphic prints, and independent publishing books directly to the festival attendees. The Marketplace provides a tangible platform for attendees to discover and acquire physical works from emerging and established independent makers, further bridging the gap between digital creation and physical craft.
Beyond the stages and the marketplace, the two-day event will host a comprehensive programme of social mixers and networking opportunities. These gatherings are designed to foster organic connections among attendees, speakers, and industry peers, creating an open atmosphere for collaboration and conversation. Among these social highlights is a specialized networking event hosted by Creative Brunch, with further announcements regarding social activities and additional programming expected to be revealed in the lead-up to the March event.
With its combination of world-class speakers, diverse programming, the new Marketplace initiative, and vibrant networking spaces, Motion North 2027 is positioning itself as a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the future of design and creative media. Full details regarding the schedule, ticketing information, and ongoing announcements for the festival can be found directly through the official Motion North website.
