It’s not just music that seems to form the cultural lineage of the city - the art scene is equally as integral to nourish those creative minds.
With exhibitions ongoing at the likes of Leeds Art Gallery and Yorkshire Sculpture Park, the next month sees a series of exhibitions beginning (or have shortly begun), from those showcasing at the Henry Moore Institute through to the grit of Armley’s Assembly House.
We’ve taken a look through the art diary to see what is opening, and though our list is certainly not exhaustive, it is a great indicator of the incredible wealth of creative talent the city has on offer, or is platforming for those outside our postcode.
Here are 13 exhibitions opening across the springtime to check out as the weather starts to get a little bit better.
1. Fadi A. Thabet - Lens on Gaza: The Sun and Moon Still Rise (until May 9)
A deeply poignant and incredibly timely photographic exhibition. This powerful showcase at Patrick Studios runs until early May, offering visitors a vital and moving visual perspective. 🖼️ Patrick Studios, Saint Mary's Lane, Mabgate, Leeds LS9 7EH | Fadi A. Thabet
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2. Sparky Saturday’s: You’re The Boss! (Saturdays)
If you need something creative and engaging to do with the family over the weekend, the brilliant M&S Archive is running their regular 'Sparky Saturday' sessions, letting visitors step into the shoes of the boss for the day. 🖼️ M&S Archive, Michael Marks Building, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT | Tripadvisor
3. Lines of Enquiry: Drawings from the Collection (April 21 - April 11 2027)
Opening this week and running for a full year, this fascinating exhibition dives deep into the archives to explore the fundamental power of drawing, showcasing some remarkable pieces from the collection. 🖼️ Leeds Art Gallery, The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AA | Leeds Museums and Galleries
4. YSP Made x Design-Nation Showcase (April 21 - October 18)
A trip to YSP is a springtime rite of passage. This new showcase highlights brilliant contemporary craftsmanship, blending perfectly with the stunning outdoor setting of the sculpture park. 🖼️ Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton, Wakefield WF4 4LG | Hannah Heys Ceramics
5. Up North! An Exhibition by Elizabeth Nash (April 22)
The stunning, atmospheric surroundings of Left Bank provide the perfect backdrop for Elizabeth Nash’s latest exhibition, with this opening night celebrating all things Northern in her distinct and captivating style. 🖼️ Left Bank, Cardigan Rd, Burley, Leeds LS6 1LJ | Google Street View
6. That’s Because by Donglin Song (April 23 - 25)
Armley’s incredible Assembly House studios host this brief but unmissable three-day showcase by Donglin Song. It's a great opportunity to support independent, grassroots artists working right here in the city. 🖼️ Assembly House, 44 Canal Road, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2PL | Donglin Song