People and communities
Walsall to host first ever FotoFest this May
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A visual expo celebrating photography, creativity and visual storytelling is taking place on Saturday 9th May to Sunday 10 May 2026 across three venues in Walsall town centre.
FotoFest 2026 builds on the momentum of MakerFest and MakerFest Fringe events over the last two years, delivered by Walsall Council working with Walsall based photographer Andy Kruczek to deliver FotoFest 2026, alongside various other partners. These events aim to position Walsall as a creative hub, continuing with the refurbishment of the Guildhall becoming a creative incubator and community makerspace for the borough.
FotoFest 2026 is being delivered by MakerFest Fringe, following the success of last year's Photography Symposium, and it will bring together industry professionals for panel discussions, guest speakers, exhibitions, FotoSocial, workshops, hands-on demonstrations and portfolio reviews.
The two-day event will feature a dynamic visual expo, with leading brands like Fujifilm and Sigma, showcasing the latest in photography and imaging technology, and visitors will have the chance to explore trends in photography and content creation as well as interactive and practical workshops for all skill levels. Also included will be keynote talks from industry experts across a wide range of topics, as well as a panel discussion with model agents, make-up artists and creative directors.
The event aims to attract both established professionals and aspiring creatives, while also providing an accessible and engaging programme for young people interested in exploring photography for the first time.
“ FotoFest is a fantastic addition to Walsall’s growing cultural offer. By building on the successes of MakerFest and its Fringe events we are aiming to bring together respected national brands, creative professionals and our local community across three venues in the heart of the town. This continues to build momentum for the launch of the Guildhall where we are committed to creating a space for people to learn, experiment and be inspired. “
“ Through the MakerFest Fringe programme we’ve been developing FotoFest to celebrate the power of photography and the stories it tells about people and place. It’s an exciting visual expo bringing artists, photographers industry specialists and audiences together to share perspectives and connect. “
FotoFest as part of MakerFest Fringe events is delivered by Walsall Council in partnership with Urban Hax CIC, The New Art Gallery Walsall and Walsall Cultural Compact, supported by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Cultural Development Fund 3 through Arts Council England.
Further details about tickets, workshop bookings and the full speaker programme will be announced soon.
Visitors are encouraged to save the date and look out for updates on Instagram @FotoFestWalsall.
