A bold and poignant sculpture has been unveiled today at Victoria Leeds as part of the centre’s annual celebration and sponsorship of Leeds Pride.
The ‘Heart to Hearts on Sidney Street’ Leeds Pride installation is an uplifting heart-shaped piece of public artwork, dedicated to connection, conversation and community.
Situated at the core of Victoria Leeds on Sidney Street, the installation has been created in support of local charity, Out Together, whose mission includes combatting loneliness and isolation among older LGBTQ+ people in the region. The installation was opened by TV personality and Leeds Pride official host Matt Jameson with representatives from the ‘Out Together’ charity and the Leeds Pride team.
This year’s activation aligns with Victoria Leeds’ ongoing support for inclusion and wellbeing during Pride, highlighting the importance of listening and talking particularly with those who may be feeling alone or disconnected in a busy world.
Jo Coburn, Centre Director at Victoria Leeds, said: “Pride is a celebration, but it’s also a call to be kind, be present, and be there for one another. This activation is designed for people to take a seat, enjoy the moment and connect with people around them. We’re incredibly proud to stand with Leeds Pride and Out Together in championing community and inclusion for everyone.”
With Leeds Pride 2025 set to be the city’s biggest celebration yet, the ‘Heart to Hearts’ installation invites people of all backgrounds to connect through conversation and kindness.
Chair of Out Together, Tim Gittins, added: “Loneliness affects thousands in the LGBTQ+ community, especially older people. This beautiful display brings visibility to those often overlooked and reminds us that a simple conversation can change someone’s day, or even their life.”
The activation will remain on display on Sidney Street throughout July, serving as a bold reminder that Pride is about people and nobody should ever feel alone.
A spokesperson for Leeds Pride said: “We’re thrilled to see Victoria Leeds once again go beyond the rainbow with a Pride installation that has real meaning. ‘Heart to Hearts’ captures the spirit of Pride and our collective mission for solidarity and compassion and it brings that to life for everyone in Leeds to see.”
Celebrating its 19th year, Leeds Pride returns on Sunday July 20 with what is expected to be the city’s biggest event yet, including a dedicated cabaret stage, star-studded acts, and a jam-packed day of music, food, and entertainment. The city is gearing up to welcome even more visitors this year, after 2024 saw a record-breaking 80,000 people attend.
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