Explore the story behind the artwork
Discover the captivating connection between Making A Stand and the natural world in this digital artwork.
Created by Studio Bark and Michael Pinsky, this artwork shows you the journey of the materials behind Making A Stand, and explores how we can live in harmony with nature through innovative and sustainable practices in our built environment.
Experience Making A Stand through sound
Vicky Ackroyd of Totally Inclusive People has recorded an audio description of Making A Stand which you can listen to via our Spotify below.
The story so far...
Why are we Making A Stand?
Artist and co-creator of Making A Stand, Michael Pinsky explores the meaning behind the artwork and invites you to explore this exciting addition to the city.
Cut the carbon jargon
We understand that the language around sustainability and climate can be overwhelming, which is why we're here to break down the lingo.
The first fin breaks the ground in City Square
On 22 May work began transforming Leeds’s landmark City Square into a striking sculptural forest as part of a new large-scale public artwork Making A Stand, inviting residents and visitors to come and play in the city centre like never before.
Plan your visit
Come and play in the forest in the centre of Leeds.
If you're travelling to the city for any of our Part Two events, take a look at our useful guide to visiting Leeds.
If you have any queries about Making A Stand please email:
makingastand@leeds2023.co.uk
There are plenty of bus stops nearby. Get a bus to Infirmary Street, Park Row, Boar Lane or Wellington Street - all within walking distance of City Square. Leeds Bus and Coach Station is 1km to City Square via Boar Lane.
Check the First Bus Leeds journey planner to find your best bus route.
The nearest car park to City Square is Q park Albion street or NCP Leeds Wellington Street.
Leeds train station is within walking distance, 65m distance away from City Square.
For more information check National Rail Enquiries.
Accessibility
Come on down to Making A Stand and learn more about the project and wonderful artists behind it.
Everyone is welcome to this public artwork and the events within it, whether simply visiting or wanting to play a more involved part. Details of accessible tours are to the right and under events.
If you have any questions about transport or accessibility, please do get in touch with us.
The nearest accessible toilets, including a Changing Places toilet, are located in Leeds Train Station.
Leeds Train Station is 65 metres away from Making A Stand.
Leeds Train Station address:
New Street Station
Leeds
LS1 4FY
An audio description of the installation, written and delivered by Vicky Ackroyd, can be accessed here on our Spotify or further up this project page
The nearest blue badge parking provision is located on Lower Basinghall Street, next to Decathlon.
These blue badge parking bays are 110 metres away from Making A Stand.
The address is:
There will be BSL Interpreted tours of the installation delivered throughout the summer in 2023. Find more information about the BSL tours.
On site interpretation at Making A Stand is available in braille, and volunteers are on site throughout the day to assist and answer any questions.
Backless seating is available within the installation. Accessible benches are located around the perimeter.
Making A Stand is wheelchair accessible.
Credits
Making A Stand would not have been possible without the creative vision from Michael Pinsky and Studio Bark. Lighting design by Phil Supple.
It has been produced and commissioned as part of our Year of Culture by LEEDS 2023.
We are proud to say Making A Stand is supported by Channel 4, Arts Council England and Leeds Beckett University.
Co-created by
Produced and Commissioned by
Supported by
Discover more behind the scenes stories
This is a FOREST
The land wants to be a forest. Through art, sculpture, film and data, This is a FOREST explores what might be possible if we if we work with rather than against nature, exposing the systems and structures that prevent ecosystems from thriving.
These public indoor and outdoor artworks invite us to explore ownership of earth, soil, air and water and how they are valued, asking what is land worth in ecological, health and social terms.
All That Lives
Celebrate Day of the Dead with Leeds’ very own Ellie Harrison and Zion Art Studio, from Mexico. Join us on a 9 day celebration of those we’ve loved and lost and send Ellie’s 13 year long body of work, The Grief Series, out in style.
Nest
Nest is a large-scale theatre production that explores how we can combat the climate crisis and create a better world for future generations.
This original and epic performance will take place at the bio-diverse landscape of RSPB St Aidan's Nature Park. Join us on a journey across St Aidan's, moving through the site as the story unfolds
Stay connected
Cultural magic is happening all the time, even stuff that could be right up your street. Don’t miss a thing…