Leeds goes global as city hosts national arts education project

Stunning sculptures will appear across Leeds when the city hosts a ground-breaking new arts education project next summer, it was announced today.

The World Reimagined will see Leeds joining other major cities around the UK in welcoming work by renowned international artists aimed at transforming understanding of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and promoting racial justice.

The series of large-scale globe structures will form a thought-provoking trail, bringing  to life the reality and impact of the slave trade through themes including ‘Mother Africa’, ‘The Reality of Being Enslaved’, ‘Still We Rise’ and ‘Expanding Soul’.

The sculptures themselves will be created by a mix of undiscovered and established artists, with an open call going out for local artists and cultural organisations in Leeds to get involved in creating their own pieces and activities.

Each sculpture will be based on original designs by artist Yinka Shonibare CBE, whose piece The World Reimagined gave the project its name.

Michelle Gayle, co-founder of The World Reimagined, said: “If we’re going to make racial justice a reality for all, it calls on us to courageously face our shared history with honesty, empathy and grace. If we do that, we can create a future in which everyone can say I’m seen.

“That’s the mission of The World Reimagined and we’re so delighted to work with the people and communities of Leeds. The response we’ve had so far from communities, artists, school - everyone - shows the desire for a multi-dimensional telling of our shared history – honouring the many people and organisations who have worked in pursuit of racial justice and extending an invitation to all to join the conversation. We hope you will join us.”

Schools, businesses and the creative sector in Leeds will also have a chance to get involved, with The World Reimagined team working on a creative learning programme as well as a series of partnership opportunities for local companies who want to demonstrate their commitment to racial justice and equality.

Other major cities talking part include Birmingham, Bristol, London, and Swansea, with The World Reimagined team set to work closely over the next year with people, organisations and communities across each city to ensure that the final trails and activities are connected to each location’s history.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, culture and education, said: “Leeds has a long and proud tradition of celebrating diversity and of showcasing the heritage of the city’s many cultures and communities.

“By joining other cities across the UK in hosting The World Reimagined, we will also be demonstrating our shared commitment to racial justice and equality and ensuring the people of Leeds have the opportunity to come together and engage with this hugely important part of our history in a new way.”

The World Reimagined trails are being delivered in partnership with global public art producers, Wild in Art, whose previous work includes the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic mascot trail, the award-winning Bee in the City in Manchester and The Big Hoot and The Big Sleuth trails in Birmingham.

Local businesses and organisations can be a part of The World Reimagined by sponsoring the event. Anyone interested in supporting or needing more information can visit https://www.theworldreimagined.org/partners/ or find out more at a city partnership event on December 13: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/reimagine-the-future-leeds-city-partnership-event-tickets-200886245167

ENDS