Students explore their hopes and fears in new exhibition at Leeds church

Student Laura Palmer with her fabric creations. Picture Tony Johnson

The “eclectic” mix featured work by 30 artists who are members of the College’s Christian Union, as well as some local artists.

They explored the meaning of both hope and fear, and how Christianity can help overcome fear.

Artist Laura Palmer, president of the Christian Union, said: “Artists responded to the theme of hope and fear in using a vast range of processes, from textile hangings to sculpture, prints and paintings. They responded differently tackling fears including ageing, illness, anxiety and the future as well as viewing hope through new life, natural beauty and support networks.”

Student Lizzie Liddington with her photographic work on the Scottish fishing industry. Picture Tony Johnson

The exhibition opened on Thursday night and is open until 4pm today.

Exhibition curator Chloe Patrickson, 23, said the eclectic range of works gave “an honest insight into the fear we, as humans, all share and the many ways we overcome this fear through the concept of hope”.

Among the artists exhibiting were 21-year-old Lucy Freeman, who showed two screen printed fabric pieces inspired by the sounds of the studio and print room at the college.

She said: “This series of textile works explores the potential for colour and simple forms to create emotive experiences, through the layering of painterly and graphic forms, contrasting colours and a variety of fabrics, the pieces translate moods from agitation to serenity.”

Student pastor Chris Balding looks at work by students from Leeds College of Arts' Christian Union. Picture Tony Johnson

Final year textiles and surface pattern design student Marni Smyth, 21, who is also a member of the Christian Union, said: “For my piece I used Photoshop to combine intricate hand drawn motifs of wilted florals with abstract brush-o backgrounds to create a multi-layered aesthetic which was then digitally printed onto silk. The message behind the print is that we shouldn’t fear ageing, as you never lose beauty, it just changes.”

More than 120 students from Leeds’s universities call St George’s, on Great George Street, their home church in Leeds.

It holds special events and services for students.

Student pastor Chris Balding, 25, said: “We’ve themed the exhibition hope and fear because we believe that the message of Jesus speaks directly to the hopes and fears that we all experience. Jesus offers us a hope right in the midst of our fear.”