Skip to content


An evolving programme of contemporary artists’ films that reflect on changing realities, through portraits of people and places across twenty countries and 2.5 years.

Difference Screen continues to develop as more works are included along the way, reflecting the currency of developing relationships between artists, curators and audiences. Each film touches on the spirit of a particular place at the time it was made. All of the films present cultural insights into moments of contemporary life experienced around the world.

Landscape in its broadest sense is a common reference point in Difference Screen, inextricably connected over millennia with conflict and change. The project considers landscape not as an idealised pictorial view, but one where human intervention is always present – a dynamic and continuous landscape, hinting at recent extinctions of previous social orders, the fault-lines of interminable social conflict, or the aspirations of new communities. 

Profiles of contributing film-makers, an essay From the Fabric of Things by Gareth Evans, a schedule of future venues and blog can be found at the Difference Screen website.

@arnolfiniarts #DifferenceScreen

Flash Sale

This event is part of the September Flash Sale. Arnolfini is offering 30% off selected shows, including performances, talks, screenings and family events, from 10am on Friday 4 September, for just twenty-four hours. 

Tickets have strictly limited availability. Join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook with #flashtag


Richard Long: TIME AND SPACE

This event accompanies the major exhibition TIME AND SPACE by Richard Long at Arnolfini, that explores the artist’s enduring relationship with the landscape of Bristol and the South West – a starting point for so many of his iconic works. This exhibition will bring together recreations of previous important works and entirely new commissions, both in the gallery and on The Downs, where the artist spent much of his childhood. The programme of events that accompanies the exhibition and offsite commission includes walks, talks and performances.