Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei presents a multidisciplinary exhibition analysing the last 200 years of global history.

Hosted inside Aviva Studios in Manchester, the city that inspired the exhibition with its role in the industrial revolution, the exhibition focuses on British imperialism, globalisation and the impact on today's political climate, through the lens of Chinese-British relations.

As part of the display, a 24-hour live performance re-enacts the artist's secret detention.

Ai Weiwei: Button Up! takes place from 2 July to 6 September 2026 at The Warehouse, Aviva Studios, Water Street, Manchester M3 4JQ, UK.