Creative Leeds - in pictures | the CULTURE VULTURE

I think I’m having a mid-life crisis. Only instead of buying a Ferrari (I doubt I could even afford a Tonka Toy version) or getting a tattoo, I’m spewing out photographs like a faulty slot machine.

A few years ago I briefly met photographer Paul Floyd Blake, who told me he never pursued photography until his 40s, and that really stayed with me. It’s been 30 years since I did a CSE, but since getting my first DSLR three years ago I’ve been on a roll. Oh, believe me when I say I take loads of shit pictures, but I’m learning and improving, and loving it.

And I have my first exhibition – whoop! A pop-up in the gorgeous surrounds of Holy Trinity Church on 6^th and 7^th July. The theme is Creation, as I’ve had the honour of snapping a variety of very talented artists and performers in Leeds, so I’m pegging their art and vitality on a few washing lines. Pop in during the day on those dates, or join me from 6:30pm on 7^th July for an open evening with live music and dance from SAA-uk and Yorkshire Life Aquatic.

In the meantime, a few examples…

Bassekou Kouyate and Ngoni Ba – I love this band and seeing them live at Howard Assembly Rooms was a real treat. Look at him rock!

Carnival 1 2014 — Leeds West Indian Carnival – an annual highlight on the Leeds calendar, so full of sparkle and community.

Lucius 1 — Lucius at Brudenell Social Club – Leeds is home to one of the country’s bestest gig venues. Discuss.

Dilrani Kaur performing Bharatanatyam in Roundhay Park. I worked with SAA-uk for three years and am so grateful for the beautiful people and art forms they introduced me to.

Irish Arts at the Chemic Tavern – Leeds is so wonderfully diverse, full of rich culture and arts traditions. How ace that organisations like Irish Arts continue to thrive and pass these on to new generations.

Creation is on at Arts@Trinity, Holy Trinity Church, Boar Lane 10am-5pm on 6th and 7th July. There’ll be a celebration evening on 7th July from 6:30pm with live music and dance – everyone welcome.