Celebrating a milestone: Vinay Jalla exhibits at MASA-UK ArtX Biennale 2025

The end of 2025 marks a landmark moment in my journey as an emerging artist in the North West: five of my artworks were selected and exhibited at the MASA-UK Art Gallery as part of the ArtX Biennale 2025. As a Manchester-based artist working across digital art, illustration and contemporary conceptual drawing, being part of such a respected exhibition has been both humbling and energising.

The ArtX Biennale is known for championing creativity, diversity and originality from artists across the UK. This year’s theme “The Joy of Life: Celebrating Beauty, Positivity & Creativity” offered a powerful and uplifting space for artists to express what joy, resilience and human connection mean in a world that often feels chaotic.

Milestone for my Manchester art journey

The gallery, located at 10a Bolton Street in Bury, opened its doors on Monday 8 December 2025 for a vibrant private view attended by artists, curators and collectors from across Greater Manchester and beyond. The exhibition runs 5th–22nd December, giving visitors the chance to browse and buy artworks directly from local and international creatives.

To my delight, not only were multiple pieces of my art selected — one of my works also appeared on the official promotional poster for the ArtX Biennale 2025. Seeing my work used to help represent the whole exhibition was an unforgettable honour and a sign that my visual style is resonating with curators and audiences alike.

From the moment I stepped inside MASA-UK, I felt the warmth, kindness and genuine passion that Matija, Kiko and their family bring to the space. Their commitment to supporting emerging artists is extraordinary, and it’s no exaggeration to say that MASA has become one of the North West’s most welcoming creative communities.

Being part of their exhibition has strengthened my confidence and encouraged me to continue exploring the social, humorous and philosophical themes in my work.

Five artworks, one gallery wall

Standing inside the gallery and seeing five of my pieces hanging together was surreal. Each artwork had been created during different periods of experimentation. Some whimsical, some reflective, some challenging the norms of modern life.

And yet, for the first time, they ‘lived’ together on one wall. There’s a beautiful intimacy in that.

Different artists, different stories, different mediums… yet all our pieces coexist and communicate quietly through the space. I like to imagine that when the gallery lights switch off at night, the artworks whisper to one another, sharing secrets, perspectives and energies that only paintings and illustrations can.

This exhibition is not just a professional achievement; it marks a turning point in the way I see myself as an artist in Manchester and the wider UK art scene.

Why exhibitions matter for emerging Manchester artists

As an artist working in Manchester, a city known for its creativity, culture and resilience, opportunities like the MASA ArtX Biennale are incredibly important. They help local artists reach new audiences, build confidence and visibility, connect with galleries and collectors, strengthen their professional portfolio, and find validation in a competitive industry. The truth is simple: every exhibition is an act of courage and a celebration of growth.

For any emerging artists reading this, I encourage you to put yourself forward for shows, competitions and open calls especially those in Greater Manchester and the North West. The region is full of supportive communities waiting to discover new voices.

ArtX Biennale 2025 - celebrating creativity and the joy of life

This year’s theme encouraged artists to explore celebration, beauty and the small sparks of joy that keep us grounded. My submitted works reflect themes I return to often the humour hidden within everyday life, the overlooked moments in public spaces, the quiet psychology of the mundane, the tension between digital culture and human behaviour, and the absurd, poetic and philosophical questions hidden in plain sight.

To have these ideas recognised and displayed as part of a respected North West exhibition is deeply affirming. It reinforces why I create art in the first place: to spark curiosity, amusement, reflection and sometimes even gentle discomfort.

Visit the exhibition or purchase online

The MASA-UK Art Gallery is open throughout the exhibition period, and many artworks (including mine) are available to purchase. It’s a perfect time of year to discover new artists, support local talent and find unique pieces for your home or as Christmas gifts.

If you missed the show or would like to explore more of my artwork, visit: Vinay Jalla's Art 

Or follow my journey on Instagram: @vinay.jalla55

Thank you MASA-UK and what comes next

A heartfelt thank you to Matija, Kiko and the MASA-UK Art Gallery team for the trust, warmth and encouragement they’ve shown me. Their dedication to nurturing artists and creating a positive, inclusive environment is rare and it makes their exhibitions truly special. This is just the beginning.

As 2026 approaches, I’m excited to continue pushing boundaries, producing new work, showcasing across Manchester, and connecting with people who find joy, humour and meaning in the everyday moments I explore through art.

Explore more of my work and check out my latest project TEAL LINES.