Liverpool 08 kicks off celebrations

Liverpool kicks off its year in the spotlight as European Capital of Culture this Friday (11 January). The opening celebrations will continue throughout the weekend.

A year-long programme of 350 cultural events includes just two dedicated to design.

The biggest is Design Show Liverpool, which takes place in June. Visitors to the four-day event can browse, buy or commission work from over 150 furniture, homeware, fashion, accessories and jewellery designers.

In November, the newlyopened Design Academy at Liverpool John Moores University will host a threeday international symposium on the 21st Century city.

However, Liverpool is holding fewer design events compared to previous Capitals of Culture, including Lille in 2004 and Cork in 2005.