Bradford hosts UK's first flower carpet installation

Bradford has hosted the United Kingdom’s first Flower Carpet installation in Centenary Square. The 29-metre-wide artwork, created from more than 300,000 dahlia flower heads, is on display until September 27.

Designed by local artist Shiraaz Ali, the hexagonal display draws inspiration from the city’s textile heritage and diverse communities by incorporating archival patterns and symbols. The project was made possible through a partnership with Tapis de Fleurs de Bruxelles, the organization responsible for the famous displays in Belgium, and was funded by Seasons of Culture as part of West Yorkshire’s Nature Season.

A team of diverse volunteers assembled the installation, which includes dahlias brought from Belgium. The event features nightly sound and light shows, with specific illuminations scheduled from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Following the exhibition, the flower heads will be composted locally to ensure an environmentally friendly conclusion to the project.