Liverpool social enterprise dot-art celebrated two decades of art and creativity with a landmark event at one of the city’s most iconic venues.
On Thursday 7th May 2026, dot-art brought together artists, supporters, friends, and staff and board members past and present at the Music Room at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall to mark twenty years since the social enterprise was founded.
The evening was a joyful reflection on two decades of achievement, featuring live music from 2006, the year dot-art was established. Guests were treated to live portrait drawings by dot-art Member Stu Harrison, and the launch of the dot-art Prize Draw, offering one lucky winner an original painting by artist Alexis Butterfield.
A specially curated slideshow drew on twenty years of archives, showcasing the many exhibitions, projects and events that have shaped dot-art’s history. The evening also saw the premiere of a new anniversary film, made all the more poignant by the story behind its creation: the film was produced by James Murphy, the very first winner of the dot-art Schools programme back in 2013, who has since gone on to build a career as a creative professional.
Guests heard from three speakers. Jim Davies, founder of Liverpool law firm DWF and dot-art’s longest-standing board member, reflected on the organisation’s journey. Artist Madeleine Pires, known for the celebrated Flower Streets murals, spoke about her experience as a dot-art Member and the opportunities that membership has brought her. Lucy Byrne, dot-art’s founder and Managing Director, also addressed guests.
Speaking at the event, Lucy Byrne said:
“Every single one of you has been a part of our journey and I cannot thank you enough. Whether it’s the practical and financial support of our partners, the advice of fellow business owners, or the loyalty of our clients, we would not be here without you. Our small but mighty team never fails to rise to every challenge, and our artists are at the heart of everything we do. Their talent, tenacity and trust have allowed us to build an organisation that refuses to let art be sidelined and insists upon the importance of creativity.”
The event was hosted with the generous hospitality of the team at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall and was supported by Kindred and Liverpool Chamber.
