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.

Sign up to our newsletter

Find out about our latest news and opportunities.

Annual Review 2024-25 (PDF, 14MB)

Download our Annual Review.

News

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.
Dawn Cameron on Community, Research and Culture in Bradford 2025

In this Medium article, researcher Dawn Cameron discusses her new PhD, exploring how ideas of ‘race’, culture, space and community engagement intersect.
A Well Deserved Cuppa: Saba Siddiqui’s Invitation to Sit, Reflect and Resist

As part of OUR TURN: Bradford Visual Arts Festival, artist Saba Siddiqui presents a multi-sensory installation that invites visitors to gather around a table and reflect on the ritual of the tea break.
Artworks for all ages illuminate campus

Music, magic and mind-bending research are transforming the University of Leeds campus for its most ambitious contribution to Light Night yet.
Leeds Creative Labs tackles climate futures

This year, we've partnered with the Priestley Centre for Climate Futures for a special edition of Leeds Creative Labs focused on one of the most urgent challenges of our time: the climate crisis.
Supporting Bradford 2025 City of Culture

The University is partnering with Bradford 2025 to enhance engagement by staff and students with the UK City of Culture’s plans.