An innovative gallery initiative is helping shape the next wave of sculpting talent in Leeds — giving three up-and-coming artists the space, support and exposure to build their careers in the city.
Sculptors Elrick Boldy, Ewan Summerton and Iona Ogilvy-Stuart have been named recipients of the 2026 Accelerator Bursary, a joint programme funded by Leeds Art Fund and delivered by Leeds Art Gallery and Assembly House Leeds.
The year-long bursary is designed to support graduating artists from Leeds Beckett University, the University of Leeds and Leeds Arts University at a pivotal stage, helping them transition from study into professional practice. Organisers say it also plays a wider role in strengthening the city’s arts scene — encouraging graduates to stay in Leeds long-term and develop sustainable creative careers.
Following a competitive open call last autumn, the trio were selected from a strong field of applicants. While all three work broadly in sculpture, each brings a distinct approach, drawing on very different materials and ideas.
Jane Bhoyroo, Principal Keeper at Leeds Art Gallery said:
“The Accelerator Bursary highlights the fantastic artistic talent that is emerging from the art schools in our city. We’re thrilled to play a role in nurturing these artists as they take the next steps in their careers and to bring their fresh perspectives to our audiences at the gallery.”
Corinne Miller, Chair of Leeds Art Fund said:
“Leeds Art Fund is perhaps best known for helping the city acquire major works of art so that everyone can enjoy world‑class artworks.
“We’re equally proud to champion emerging talent here in Leeds, giving students a genuine head start in their careers with funded studio space and the guidance of leading artists as mentors. We have been delighted with the success of the Accelerator Bursary in its first year and wish this year’s cohort every success – we shall take a keen interest in their progress. ”
Alice Boulton-Breeze, Co-Director and Creative Producer at Assembly House added:
“As one of Leeds’s biggest supporters of early career artists, we love being able to work with artists through the Accelerator Bursary. Seeing what they will develop over 12 months is so exciting, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to their exhibition in November.”
Elrick Boldy, who studied at Leeds Arts University, explores the limits of communication through asemic writing — symbols that resemble text but carry no fixed meaning. His ‘drawings’ are translated into plasma-cut steel, formed into curves and waves before being finished with a patina that echoes the tones and textures of rust.
Ewan Summerton, a Leeds Beckett graduate, works across large-scale sculpture and video, using unwanted materials rescued from skips alongside surveillance footage and other mixed media. His practice examines the often-unseen infrastructures and systems that quietly influence everyday life.
Iona Ogilvy-Stuart, from the University of Leeds, combines materials including bronze, waxes, clay, synthetic fibres and found organic matter. Her work reflects the urgency of social and ecological change, while also tracing the slow, enduring force of geological processes.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture said:
“It’s always inspiring to see a new generation of artistic talent emerging in Leeds and for the gallery and our partners to be playing a part in nurturing their potential.
“Leeds has long been a proving ground for innovative and ground-breaking artists and, with the support of the gallery, it’s exciting to see what the future holds for these exciting talents.”
As part of the bursary, the selected artists will receive access to a shared studio space and an exhibition opportunity at Assembly House, as well as a presentation of their work at Leeds Art Gallery. They will also benefit from mentoring and career development support throughout the year from gallery staff and external experts.
Now in its second year, the Accelerator Bursary has quickly become a popular programme — providing a stepping stone for emerging artists and helping to retain creative talent in the city. The scheme runs from January to December, with artist callouts taking place each autumn.
To follow the 2026 cohorts, visit Leeds Art Gallery and Assembly House Leeds on Instagram @LeedsArtGallery and @Assembly_Leeds, or check their websites at www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk and www.assemblyhouse.art
Leeds Art Fund has championed the arts in the city since 1912. Find out more about its work at www.leedsartfund.org
