Take a pit stop with an art-inspired walk around the Roadburn festival

Full Bleed Expo – Photo: Paul Verhagen

The visual is always very present during Roadburn festival. In the new venue, The Pit Stop, it hits you from all sides. From the muscular men statues, which will be seen on many Instagram accounts, to the Full Bleed expo, it’s a feast for the eyes. So we went to have a look and hang out with people who create beauty.

Editor: Guido Segers / Photo’s: Paul Verhagen

Full Bleed has become an integral part of Roadburn, providing visitors with artistic interpretations of shows that take place, but also enabling them to purchase unique and beautiful memories. Jacob Bannon, from Converge, is selling his prints and posing for pictures with fans. It’s a really pleasant and relaxed vibe you feel here and that is absolutely worth your time. A number of artists have in the past provided artwork for Roadburn itself, though not all of those are present this year. Richey Becket for example, has created some stunning works for the previous edition.

Full Bleed Expo – Photo: Paul Verhagen

Have you been mesmerized yet by the artwork you find around the festival itself (particularly in 013, as part of the ‘The Hidden Forest’ expo)? That’ll be the work of Maarten Donders, who creates playful natural pieces, and of course this year’s artwork. Find him at the Full Bleed expo if you want your own, and to tell him how cool it is. Tattoo artist and illustrator Jondix is also there. He tells us he almost didn’t make it, as his plane had issues in Barcelona. Luckily he persuaded the airport staff to get him to Roadburn too with his stunning Triptykon prints.

Full Bleed Expo: Jondix signing Triptykon artwork he and David D’Andrea made. Photo: Paul Verhagen

Walter Hoeijmakers, the creative director of Roadburn Festival received a reward for his services to the city of Tilburg. Together with the reward, he was also given a print of the Triptykon art by Jondix.

Nearby, we also find the art of Melissa Nadler, which is pretty, straightforward but always slightly unnerving. Though the expo is only open till 19.00, you can visit this part all throughout the day, similarly for the art of Emma Ruth Rundle.

Jacob Bannon at the Full Bleed Expo – Photo: Paul Verhagen

So much to see, so much to do, but what is most amazing about it is how Roadburn can now almost bask in it’s own tradition and history. Warm smiles appear when people point out artwork from previous editions and posters from legendary Roadburn gigs. There is more to Roadburn than just music, so make sure to take some time to check it out.