Creating Communities: The Secret Lives of Sculptures

Two groups of student curators, from the MA Art Gallery and Museum Studies course at the University of Leeds, have worked with the University of Leeds’ Art Collection to create two unique displays in the Education Room of the Stanley and Audrey Burton Gallery.

This display shows the development of a selection of public sculptures, all of which have become a part of campus life at the University of Leeds.

In comparison with traditional art gallery shows, public art occupies a unique position within the art world. It has become an essential and recognized part of our public history and our ever-evolving culture. It adds value to cities and a sense of uniqueness to a community. As a community with a long history, the University of Leeds is a public space for artists to present their artworks and for students to engage with them and with the campus itself.

This display focuses on four artists: Quentin Bell, Mitzi Cunliffe, William Chattaway and Keith Wilson. It presents unseen sketches and models of the artists’ work and the stories behind them. These sculptures have become place makers, meeting points and conversation starters to many passers-by and are key in developing interaction and engagement between students and the wider community.

See here for details of a second exhibition in the Education Room, curated by MA Art Gallery and Museum Studies students.

Image: Keith Wilson, Sign for Art (Stelae), 2014