Cultural Institute

The Cultural Institute activates exchange between the University of Leeds and the creative sector, benefiting people, research and student experience.

We support interdisciplinary research, artist residencies, student opportunities and cultural programmes like Light Night and Smeaton300.

Collaboration is key to our work, creating opportunities for researchers, artists and creative professionals to play, explore and innovate.

As a key driver of the Cultural Engagement Strategy, we build meaningful connections within the University and across the wider community, mobilising the power of culture and creativity to drive positive change.

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Annual Review 2024-25 (PDF, 14MB)

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News

Broadcaster Kirsty Wark to host event exploring AI and the creative industries

Book your place at ‘What’s Next: AI, Skills and the Future of the Creative Industries’, a public panel event exploring how the sector can respond responsibly to these changes, Tuesday 17 March 2026.
Igniting new partnerships

The Ignite Fund is supporting new partnerships between University of Leeds researchers and cultural organisations across Yorkshire, enabling creative collaborations that address shared challenges and spark new ideas.
Student opportunities: Light Night 2026

Find out about current opportunities for students, including up to £4,000 funding for a creative installation, performance, or activity for Light Night Leeds 2026.
Ella reflects on her role as Exhibition Assistant at Loading Bay’s Bradford 2025 finale

Ellie talks shares how art can bring people together and create a sense of community through a unique cultural project.
Open up: making arts and cultural activities accessible to everyone

Your guide to arts and cultural events, workshops, talks and more, at the University of Leeds. Open Up is our invitation to connect through culture, on campus, in the city, and beyond.
Leeds Creative Labs partners with Yorkshire Sculpture Park to explore the theme of connection

We've partnered with the Yorkshire Sculpture Park to launch the latest edition of Leeds Creative Labs, pairing six artists with six academics for a collaborative residency.
New Turner Prize education partnership revealed

A partnership between University of Leeds, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture and Yorkshire Contemporary will support the education programme of the Turner Prize 2025.