18 September � 28 November 2010
�Touched�, the title of the International exhibition for the 6th Liverpool Biennial International Festival of Contemporary Art.

Liverpool Biennial is the UK�s largest as well as one of the most exciting contemporary visual arts events, and with 960,000 visits in 2008, it is one of the best attended in the world. The 2010 international show will celebrate a decade of commissioning new art � more than 200 artworks - through curatorial collaboration. As a result of Liverpool Biennial�s success, commissioning and collaboration have become increasingly common strategies globally for Biennials and Triennials during this period.

Touched will consist of new art that succeeds in affecting the viewer: art that moves us in mind, body and soul. The new commissions for Touched will be announced spring 2010.

Lewis Biggs comments: �The discussions within the curatorial team set out with the recognition that if art is to be memorable, interesting or influential it has to start by moving us.�

�Touched presents affective art, and so becomes a sketch map of the affections - passion, rage, lust, pleasure, fear and joy. Throughout history, artists have refreshed their practice through returning to these permanent motivators in the human psyche. The collapse and restructuring of financial markets in the countries formerly known as G8 has given urgency to our need for an art whose outlook is characterised by inter-dependence and mutual responsibility. Artists depend on their art touching its audience to communicate shared meaning. The erotic frisson between art and its audience is the same as that between individuals who share interests.�

Steven Broomhead, Chief Executive of the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), said: �Liverpool Biennial has established itself as a truly international event and has already touched thousands of people over the past decade. We are delighted to be able to support the 2010 event, which will once again be a showcase for the city. As well as bringing international talent to Liverpool, the Biennial also helps us to cement our reputation as a vibrant, culturally dynamic region on a world-wide stage.�

Liverpool Biennial International Festival of Contemporary Art 2010 will take place in venues and sites around Liverpool City Centre, including the Walker Art Gallery, FACT (Foundation for art and creative technology) the Bluecoat, Open Eye Gallery, Tate Liverpool, Afoundation, and many other gallery and non-gallery sites. www.biennial.com