Portland Marina has been chosen as the headline sponsor for the island's popular arts festival.  

The highly anticipated b-side Arts Festival is set to return to the Isle of Portland from Thursday, September 5 to Sunday, September 8.

Organisers have announced that Portland Marina will be its headline sponsor for the first time in its ten-year history.

The festival showcases the works of various artists and performers of national and international acclaim.

This year, the festival’s theme, “Who Do We Think We Are?”, invites creatives to delve into stories of migration and identity, exploring the enriching diversity of heritage and culture.

READ MORE: b-side festival on Portland announces first artists

The marina will host various showcases, including a piece by international artist Gil Mualem Doron titled The New Union Flag Rules the Waves which has previously been displayed at the Tate Modern.

A Keep Portland Weird parade at a previous b-side FestivalA Keep Portland Weird parade at a previous b-side Festival (Image: Pete Millson)

It will also be the site for a mass kite-making workshop involving hundreds of participants, including local schoolchildren, who will fly their creations over the English Channel. 

A projection event will also open the festival on Thursday, September 5, highlighting Portland's significance and the festival’s theme of unity.

Rocca Holly-Nambi, director of b-side, said: “As we celebrate our tenth festival, it remains crucial to spotlight the Isle of Portland’s rich offerings and its stories through art.

"Having Portland Marina as a major sponsor enhances our ability to foster a sense of community and shared history.”

More information about the festival can be found on its website: https://b-side.org.uk/