Business Details
20 Years
experience
Free Contemporary Art in Leeds
Yorkshire Contemporary is a Leeds-based arts organisation dedicated to creating free, inspiring contemporary art experiences across the region. Founded in 2006 as Project Space Leeds, we evolved from an artist-led gallery to a charity-driven platform supporting early-career artists and fostering community creativity through exhibitions, commissions, and public programmes. Our mission focuses on accessibility, ensuring visual art remains free and inclusive for all audiences. We collaborate with local communities and international artists to deliver ambitious projects, from temporary installations to permanent public art. With a commitment to nurturing artistic talent, we provide mentorship, investment, and development opportunities for emerging artists. Our work spans galleries, public spaces, and community hubs, including partnerships with venues like Cartwright Hall Art Gallery and Leeds Art Gallery.We also host participatory initiatives such as Tiny Totley Studio and The Play, Make and Create Project, encouraging creative engagement for all ages. As we search for a new permanent home, our programming continues to reflect our core values of collaboration, innovation, and accessibility. Supported by charitable donations and partnerships, we strive to make contemporary art a dynamic, shared experience. Our team combines decades of curatorial and artistic expertise, ensuring high-quality, impactful programming. Through our Journal, we share behind-the-scenes insights, artist stories, and reflections on our evolving practice. Yorkshire Contemporary remains artist-centred, championing creativity as a transformative force in communities.
Services
Art Exhibitions
Artist Commissions
Community Workshops
Public Art Projects
Creative Playgroups
Artist Mentorship
Cultural Programming
Gallery Partnerships
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We deliver free, accessible contemporary art experiences across Yorkshire
- Our artist development programmes provide mentorship and career opportunities
- We create inclusive community-focused projects like Tiny Totley Studio
- Our international collaborations connect local audiences with global artists
- We maintain a 17-year legacy of innovative art programming since 2006
Services
Art Exhibitions
We curate free contemporary art exhibitions across Leeds and Yorkshire, featuring both emerging and established artists. Our programmes include Turner Prize-linked displays and site-specific installations. Exhibitions rotate regularly to maintain fresh, engaging content for repeat visitors.
Artist Commissions
We commission new works from early-career artists, providing financial support and production resources. These projects often result in permanent public art installations or touring exhibitions. Our selection process prioritises innovative concepts with community engagement potential.
Community Workshops
Our participatory workshops bring art-making opportunities to diverse audiences. Programmes like The Play, Make and Create Project offer hands-on creative activities for families and individuals. Sessions are designed to be accessible to all skill levels and ages.
Artist Mentorship
We provide professional development guidance for emerging artists through structured mentorship programmes. This includes portfolio reviews, exhibition advice, and networking opportunities with established practitioners and institutions.
Public Art Projects
We develop temporary and permanent public art installations that transform urban spaces. These projects often involve community collaboration and aim to make contemporary art accessible beyond traditional gallery settings.
People
Bryony Bond
Director
Bryony Bond has led Yorkshire Contemporary's artistic vision since 2013, overseeing its evolution from Project Space Leeds to a regional arts hub. She will depart in 2025 to pursue new creative ventures.
Victoria Lungu
Artist
Victoria Lungu creates immersive installations exploring identity and belonging. She co-leads creative playgroups at Hamara Healthy Living Centre, blending art practice with community engagement through experimental workshops.
Izzy Dabiri
Artist
Izzy Dabiri specialises in participatory art projects that challenge social norms. They collaborate with Victoria Lungu on community-focused initiatives, using art as a tool for empowerment and dialogue in diverse settings.
Questions
Are Yorkshire Contemporary's exhibitions free to attend?
Yes, all our exhibitions and events are completely free to ensure accessible contemporary art experiences for everyone.
How can artists apply for commission opportunities?
Artists can submit proposals through our open call system advertised on our website and social media channels.
Do you offer educational programmes for schools?
We provide tailored art workshops and gallery visits for school groups, aligned with national curriculum requirements.
How can local communities get involved in projects?
Community members can join participatory workshops, volunteer opportunities, or propose collaborative projects through our engagement team.
What happened to The Tetley gallery?
The Tetley was our home from 2013-2023. We continue our mission under the Yorkshire Contemporary name while seeking a new permanent space.
