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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Holding conflict

Download our resource pack, ‘Holding conflict,’ supporting arts organisations, cultural sector workers, and practitioners with ways to manage conflict.

Holding Conflict Framework Booklet

Accessible PDF, 5.77MB

News

Supporting arts organisations navigate controversy and disagreement

'Holding conflict' is a new resource offering practical tools to help arts organisations, cultural sector workers and practitioners prepare for, manage and learn from conflict.
Illuminating ideas take over campus

From galaxies far away to the growing forest at Gair Wood, research-inspired artworks and performances are taking over campus for Light Night Leeds 2026.
Why Research Matters in a Working Ceramics Studio

Chris Crawford talks through the latest research taking place at Sunken Studio as part of this year's Ignite Fund.
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.
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.
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.

Ignite 2026-27