Leeds Art Gallery's summer showcase of 'most innovative and influential sculptors '
A new seasonal sculptural spectacular will see stunning works by world-renowned artists go on show in Leeds this summer.
Leeds Art Gallery’s Summer of Sculpture will feature an impressive programme of thought-provoking exhibitions and installations including eye-catching pieces by some of contemporary sculpture’s leading lights.
The programme will begin in May with artist Garth Evans’ The Anti-Virus Sculptures, created at his home in Connecticut during the first Covid lockdown, which will be displayed at the gallery from May 22 until October 4.
Made up of more than 30 small-scale plaster sculptures, each has its own name and as part of the exhibition, visitors in Leeds will even have the chance to suggest titles for as yet unnamed sculptures.
Also opening in May will be Arp: The Plasters, an exhibition celebrating the recent acquisition of a group of plaster sculptures by French-German sculptor, painter and poet Jean (Hans) Arp (1886-1966), a gift from the Stiftung Arp, e.V. to Leeds Museums and Galleries and The Hepworth Wakefield.
Other renowned sculptors, including Yorkshire’s own Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth, were inspired by their visits to Arp’s studio in Meudon during the 1930s.
The Summer of Sculpture will also include UNEARTHING(S) by Hannah Catherine Jones (b.1987) from May 22 until August 30.
A Yorkshire Contemporary commission for Leeds Art Gallery, this will mark Jones’ first exhibition in her home county and her largest solo presentation to date.
Rounding off the summer’s events will be Dinner Party, an exhibition comprised of works by Matthew Smith, Jacob Epstein and Olivia Bax, which will be at the gallery from June 26, 2026 until February 6, 2027.
Jane Bhoyroo, principal keeper at Leeds Art Gallery, said: “This summer is set to be a hugely exciting time for the gallery and for the arts in Leeds, as we prepare to exhibit work by some of the most innovative and influential sculptors from the 20th century and those working today.
Coun Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “Leeds Art Gallery’s reputation as a world-renowned centre for contemporary sculpture continues to grow and prestigious events like this emphasise just how significant the collection there is.
“Most importantly it gives us the opportunity to invite visitors to experience the gallery and city in a new way and to learn more about why Leeds is such a vibrant and exciting cultural destination.”