In 1949, Yorkshire-born modernist Herbert Read, alongside Bonamy Dobrée, Professor of English at the University of Leeds, proposed a Department of Fine Art to the University. It is now the School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies and also includes museum, heritage and curatorial studies.

Seventy years later this exhibition reflected on their radical plan, which asked the questions: What is the role of art practice at the heart of a research university? What is the role of the university in the education of fine artists? And, what is the relation of the university to the culture of the city and the region?

Experimental in form, the show offered a chorus of voices and media across campus. It was co-curated me and Griselda Pollock.

Highlights included works by Terry Atkinson, Elizabeth Price, Sutapa Biswas and Lubaina Himid. The exhibition took place across two venues, with work displayed at both The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery and the Project Space at The School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies.

4 December 2019–4 April 2020. Extended until 31 October 2020.

Graphic design by Joe Gilmore.
Exhibition guide for the Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery.
Exhibition guide for the Project Space.