Hyde Park Picture House project features art work of historical Leeds cinemas

The Hyde Park Picture House’s Hiding in Plain Sight project, which starts today, brings together years of research with new artwork from Adam Allsuch Boardman to provide an illustrated history of cinemas in the West Yorkshire city.

The project website will allow users to navigate the city and visit the locations of past cinemas, many of which have survived and are still visible today.

Cinemas which have long been closed but can still be seen include Kirkstall’s Abbey Picture House, the Clock Cinema in Harehills and Leeds city centre’s Majestic Cinema.

Mr Allsuch Boardman said: “Having highly enjoyed working with the Hyde Park Picture House on previous illustrative ventures, I was thrilled to be invited to produce imagery to celebrate the role of cinemas in the Leeds community.

"During my research with Laura, I was drawn to the characteristic facades of each cinema.

"Whether it’s the intricate terracotta brickwork, or hand-painted and electric signage, each building tells a unique story of its place in Leeds’ cultural history.

"To do my best in honouring their dynamic, grand and eccentric architecture, I felt compelled to systematically draw as many cinemas as possible.

"I am very proud of my illustrative part in the project and believe the artwork and interactive website will communicate the colourful cinematic heritage of Leeds to a wider audience.”

Alongside illustrations and archive photographs – many of which have been provided by Leeds Libraries' Leodis archive – visitors to the website will also be able to contribute to the project directly by submitting memories or photos they have of specific cinema venues.

The project is being marked by an accompanying exhibition at independent bookshop Colours May Vary.

Leeds Inspired and the National Lottery Heritage Fund have supported the project.

Laura Ager, the Hyde Park Picture House’s creative engagement officer and the project’s lead, said: “For me, one of the most exciting aspects of this project has been its interactivity, as well the way it mixes research methods.

"Adam's detailed illustrations have revealed some interesting links between historic cinemas in the city and delving into the central library's archives has been really rewarding.

"Now we will begin drawing on people's own observations – photos and memories – to see what else we can find out about our city's cinema heritage. It feels like a genuinely co-produced and collaborative piece of research.”

To see the project, visit www.lostcinemas.co.uk.