Steve McQueen’s Protest Exhibition Opens at Leeds Art Gallery: what residents need to know

beehiveweb.co.uk editorial team 2026-08-20 10:14 2 min read

Clean, modern art gallery interior with framed protest photography on white walls.

A major exhibition exploring the history of British activism through the lens of photography is set to arrive in Leeds this autumn. Steve McQueen: Resistance – How Protest Shaped Britain and Photography Shaped Protest will open at Leeds Art Gallery on 6 November 2026, remaining on display until 25 April 2027.

Conceived by the acclaimed artist and filmmaker Steve McQueen and curated in collaboration with Clarrie Wallis and Emma Lewis, the exhibition traces a century of grassroots struggle. The collection moves from the radical suffragette movement of 1903 to the 2003 Iraq War march, examining how photography has served as both a witness to and a driver of social change in the UK. Leeds Art Gallery serves as the North of England destination for this tour, following successful runs at Turner Contemporary in Margate and the National Galleries of Scotland.

A Century of Grassroots Struggle

The exhibition is notable for its focus on pre-digital photography, drawing from a variety of archives and image libraries to showcase the work of over 40 photographers. Visitors will encounter pieces by influential figures including Vanley Burke, Tish Murtha, Fay Godwin, and Edith Tudor-Hart, alongside works from lesser-known photographers who documented pivotal moments in British social history.

Steve McQueen’s Protest Exhibition Opens at Leeds Art Gallery: what residents need to know

McQueen’s project, which is the culmination of a four-year effort, aims to highlight individual stories and communities that have historically been underrepresented. According to the artist, the exhibition is designed to serve as a reminder that collective action remains a powerful force for change. Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, noted that the exhibition provides a unique opportunity for visitors to reflect on the groundbreaking moments that have helped shape British history.

Main Takeaways and Exhibition Context

For those interested in the historical research behind the images, a major publication titled Resistance will be available, featuring first-hand accounts and expert analysis from contributors such as Gary Younge, Paul Gilroy, and Baroness Chakrabarti. The exhibition is structured to offer a comprehensive look at how visual media has captured the spirit of civil defiance over the last century.

Practical Information for Visitors

Leeds Art Gallery is the designated venue for this exhibition. While the dates are confirmed for 6 November 2026 through 25 April 2027, specific daily opening times, ticket prices, and booking requirements have not yet been released by the organisers. Visitors are advised to monitor the official Leeds Art Gallery website for updates regarding logistics, accessibility, and any potential booking requirements as the opening date approaches.

Source: Leeds City Council

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Source check Verified Event Details

The exhibition dates and curatorial details were verified against the official announcement from Leeds City Council.

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