Exploring Leeds’ Artistic Hotspots: A Guide To The City’s Art Galleries and Museums 2024
Leeds is home to a diverse and energetic art scene. From galleries and museums, to street art and urban installations, the range of artistic talent in Leeds is huge, catering to a variety of target audiences. In our series, ‘Exploring Leeds Artistic Hotspots’, we will be breaking down the art scene and providing information about all of our favourite artistic spots in Leeds!
From the old halls of Leeds Art Gallery to the interactive exhibits at Abbey House Museum, Leeds is renowned for galleries and museums that celebrate both local and international art, history and culture. Continue reading to discover which galleries and museums you might want to visit on your next day out in Leeds!
Leeds Art Gallery
Located on Headrow, next to the city’s war memorial at Victoria Square, Leeds Art Gallery is home to hundreds of paintings, dating all the way back to the early 1700’s. The council-owned grade II listed building opened its doors in 1888 by the Mayor, Alderman Archibald Witham Scarr. Famous paintings including William Holman Hunt’s ‘The Shadow of Death’ and Lady Elizabeth Butler’s ‘Scotland Forever!’ are displayed within the walls of this stunning gallery.
Leeds Art Gallery not only shows a variety of delicate paintings, but also hosts a range of exhibitions and workshops including their weekly ‘Meet and Make’ arts and crafts session on a Friday afternoon. The Art Gallery is currently presenting ‘Nothing Last’s Forever’, an exhibition that shows the work of photographer Peter Mitchell. Visit their website https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-art-gallery/ to learn more about this exhibition and future events!
2. East Street Arts
East Street Arts began back in the early 90’s when artists Karen Watson and Jon Wakeman struggled to find the foundation and support that they needed to develop their artistic work. Addressing concerns of economic and commercial decline in towns and cities, the artists have worked to secure better careers for artists across Leeds and beyond. As well as owning three spaces (Patrick Studios, Convention House and The Art Hostel), the organisation also rent two spaces (Barkston Studios and Union 105). Each venue, based in Leeds, not only allows artists to practice their work in a studio environment but also provides space to host events, workshops and meetings.
To read more about East Street Arts and learn about their upcoming workshops and events visit https://eaststreetarts.org.uk/. Be sure to check out their articles about local art and sign up to their newsletter!
3. Abbey House Museum
With tickets priced at just £6.80 for adults and £3.30 for under 18s, Abbey House Museum is the perfect place for people of all ages to learn about what life was like in Victorian Leeds. Roam the cobbled Victorian streets of the 19th century and visit the museum’s authentically recreated shops, pubs and houses. In addition to its streets and growing collection of 19th century children's toys and memorabilia, the museum hosts a variety of events and exhibitions. Whether you want to learn about history and heritage or want to attend a crafty summer flower bouquet workshop, Abbey House has events catered to everyone! Check out what’s on over at https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/abbey-house-museum/ and be sure to make your way down to the iconic Abbey House Craft Fayre later this year.
4. Henry Moore Institute
Due to reopen from a refurbishment on 12th July 2024, Henry Moore Institute in Leeds not only consists of galleries, but also holds an extensive sculpture research library and collections of sculpture’s papers, making it the perfect location to learn, enjoy and indulge in sculpture from across the world. Since its temporary closure, the institute has been hosting a range of online events aiming to keep artists and sculptor enthusiasts engaged with the creative world.
The institute was founded by Henry Moore and his family in 1977 with the intention of encouraging public appreciation of visual arts and we must say, they have most certainly achieved their goals! Today, the Henry Moore Institute supports creative sculpture projects, generates an innovative programme of research and exhibitions and upholds the legacy of the renowned sculptor, Henry Moore. Head on down to their party from 6pm - 8pm on 11th July to celebrate the reopening of this iconic Leeds gallery!
5. Castle Fine Art
The stylish and contemporary gallery, Castle Fine Art, is situated alongside a variety of luxury retailers in the heart of the prestigious Victoria Quarter in Leeds. The exclusive gallery consists of prints, artworks and sculptures by some of the country's leading artists including Bob Dylan, Johnny Depp, Billy Connolly and James McQueen.
With galleries located in numerous cities across the United Kingdom, Castle Fine Art have been helping their clients' find a forever home for their work since 1995. The retailer aims to unite people with their perfect piece of art. If you are looking for a new creative work to liven your home then look no further! Browse their stunning collection over at https://www.castlefineart.com/uk or visit one of their many stores!
6. Thackray Museum of Medicine
Get ready to step back in time to the grimy streets of Victorian England this summer at the Thackray Museum of Medicine. From historical exhibits of the 19th century to modern pharmacy immersive experiences, the museum explores every aspect of healthcare and medical innovations. As well as the museum areas being open for visitors 10am - 5pm every day, Thackray also features events and exhibitions such as ‘Dressing Disability’, an exhibit by Curating For Change which will be running until October 2024. Visit https://thackraymuseum.co.uk/ to explore upcoming events or to book museum tickets.
