New bursary supports emerging Leeds sculptors

New bursary supports emerging Leeds sculptors

February 25, 2026 Off By

Local artists receive backing to develop their careers

Three emerging sculptors from Leeds have been awarded the 2026 Accelerator Bursary, a scheme aimed at supporting graduating artists from local universities and encouraging them to establish their careers within the city. The bursary is a collaboration between Leeds Art Fund, Leeds Art Gallery, and Assembly House Leeds.

Selected artists and their work

The 2026 bursary recipients are Elrick Boldy, Ewan Summerton, and Iona Ogilvy-Stuart, each working primarily in sculpture but employing different materials and approaches.

  • Elrick Boldy (Leeds Arts University) explores communication through asemic writing. His work involves plasma-cut steel shaped into curves and waves, treated with a rust-like patina.
  • Ewan Summerton (Leeds Beckett University) uses salvaged materials such as items from skips and surveillance footage to investigate hidden infrastructures influencing daily life, combining large-scale sculptures and video works.
  • Iona Ogilvy-Stuart (University of Leeds) incorporates materials including bronze, waxes, clay, synthetic fibres, and found organic matter to address social and ecological change, while reflecting geological processes.

Programme details and opportunities

The Accelerator Bursary runs for one year, from January to December. It provides the artists with:

  • Access to a shared studio space
  • An exhibition opportunity at Assembly House Leeds
  • A presentation of work at Leeds Art Gallery
  • Career development support and mentoring from gallery staff and external experts

Statements from organisers

Jane Bhoyroo, Principal Keeper at Leeds Art Gallery, said the bursary highlights the talent emerging from Leeds art schools and supports artists as they progress in their careers.

Corinne Miller, Chair of Leeds Art Fund, noted the organisation’s commitment to championing emerging talent in Leeds by providing funded studio space and mentorship. She expressed optimism about the success of the bursary’s second year and the future of this year’s cohort.

Alice Boulton-Breeze, Co-Director and Creative Producer at Assembly House, described the bursary as an important support for early career artists and looked forward to the exhibition planned for November.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, commented on the city’s history of fostering innovative artists and the role of the gallery and partners in nurturing new talent.

Further information

The Accelerator Bursary accepts applications each autumn and runs annually. Updates on the 2026 cohort will be available via Leeds Art Gallery and Assembly House’s social media and websites:

Leeds Art Fund, established in 1912, continues to support the arts in Leeds through various initiatives. More information is available at www.leedsartfund.org.

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