Deadline looms in search for sculptor to create tribute to Leeds women

Professor Simone Wonnacott, Vice-Chancellor at Leeds Arts University.

A long-running campaign to create a lasting monument celebrating Leeds women has been re-energised as the submissions deadline looms.

The YEP last year joined Leeds West MP Rachel Reeves and council leader Judith Blake to call for a statue reflecting on the city’s history of strong female pioneers and record-breakers.

Leeds Arts University is now a leader of the project, and the piece could be an innovative, abstract or conceptual sculpture rather than necessarily being a realistic portrayal of a historical figure.

The submissions deadline is Friday, September 21 to apply for the project.

A final sculptor will then be selected to create the piece for a site at Quarry Hill, with an unveiling expected in June 2020.

“Leeds Arts University has a rich heritage of supporting pioneering women sculptors, including the iconic Barbara Hepworth, and we’re keen to continue that tradition.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for established and up-and-coming artists to create something truly innovative, celebrating the accomplishments of multiple women in Leeds in a new and exciting way.

Submissions are open to all, not just students at the university.

Applicants will need to provide a 500 word proposal statement, CV and images.

To apply, log on to www.leeds-art.ac.uk/feminist-public-sculpture and download an artist’s brief form.