DRY26 is a programme of curated season of art and films celebrating Dry January, launched in 2026.
Dry January has become a national moment for millions to pause and reflect. But what if that pause could spark something bigger? This new program of work reframed the idea of abstinence, inviting people to explore identity, connection, and wellbeing through the lens of creativity.
As Mark Prest, Founder & CEO, put it:
“Dry January creates a nationally unique, collective pause. DRY26 questions our relationship to alcohol and suggests art offers alternative ways of seeing ourselves, connecting with others – turning restraint into opportunity.”
Program Highlights
- Recovery Street Film Festival Screening & Panel Award-winning short films like The Light Side and Sons of Jericho, and an inspiring discussion with filmmakers and creatives.
- Roots in the Sky Exhibition Tour The vibrant world of British-Nigerian artist Tunji Adeniyi-Jones at HOME, which explored works that span continents and cultures.
- Recoverist Curators Exhibition Tour A behind-the-scenes exhibition tour at the Whitworth with iconic works by David Hockney, Tracey Emin, and Wolfgang Tillmans seen through the lens of recovery.
- Stitching for Change Hands-on with cross-stitching workshop which dove into conversations about drug policy and activism.
- Re-Make/Re-Model Listening Party An exploration of music and recovery with Recoverist Curator Paul.
- Artefacts of Interaction Workshop A group collaboration with artist Will Belshah in a session that blended artmaking with themes of neurodivergence, collaboration and sobriety.
Whether you’re trying Dry January for the first time or simply curious about the intersection of art and recovery, DRY26 offers fresh ways to engage.
