Sonia Boyce: Feeling Her Way

26 May - 5 November 2023

Leeds Art Gallery

"Feeling Her Way" by Sonia Boyce OBE RA was specially commissioned by the British Council for the 59th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia in 2022. This multifaceted installation seamlessly blends video, collage, music, and sculpture to showcase a collection centred around the vocal experimentation of five Black female musicians. Featuring Jacqui Dankworth MBE, Poppy Ajudha, Sofia Jernberg, Tanita Tikaram, and composer Errollyn Wallen, Boyce orchestrated a unique collaboration at Abbey Road Studios in London and Atlantis Studios in Stockholm, encouraging these intergenerational musicians to improvise, interact, and explore the expressive possibilities of their voices.

The installation's focal point includes colour-tinted video works set amidst tessellating wallpapers crafted by Boyce and golden 3-D geometric structures. These structures, with their highly reflective surfaces, envelop the audience, immersing them in the artistic exploration. Notably, "Feeling Her Way" was honoured with the Golden Lion for Best National Participation at La Biennale di Venezia 2022. The exhibition receives support from Art Fund, Henry Moore Foundation, Leeds City Council, and Arts Council England.

About Leeds Art Gallery

Leeds Art Gallery stands as a prominent cultural institution, renowned for its dynamic exhibition program and a substantial collection of modern and contemporary British art. Nestled in the heart of Leeds, this gallery has evolved into a vibrant hub that attracts art enthusiasts and cultural connoisseurs alike.

The gallery's commitment to the arts is reflected in its expansive public spaces, which serve as a canvas for a diverse range of exhibitions that explore the rich tapestry of British artistic expression. The impressive collection spans various periods, styles, and mediums, offering visitors a comprehensive journey through the evolution of contemporary and modern art in the UK.

Leeds Art Gallery's significance extends beyond its exhibition spaces. The venue boasts contemporary conference and meeting areas, including distinguished rooms like the Henry Moore Room, Hepworth Room, and Wadsworth Room. These spaces not only contribute to the gallery's versatility but also provide unique settings for events, conferences, and discussions that further enrich the cultural dialogue.

A central player in the cultural landscape of Leeds, the gallery has become a symbol of the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression and providing a platform for both emerging and established artists. The gallery's initiatives, ranging from thought-provoking exhibitions to collaborative projects, contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Leeds, making it a destination for those seeking to engage with the arts on a profound level.

Supported by the community and cultural organizations, including the Arts Council England, Leeds Art Gallery continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the artistic narrative of the region. Through its ongoing dedication to the visual arts, the gallery ensures that Leeds remains a vibrant and inclusive space where creativity flourishes, and the transformative power of art is accessible to all.