'One Pop of Pride': Giant balloon dogs arrive in Leeds for major Pride double anniversary
A vibrant and playful public art exhibition has landed in the heart of Leeds city centre as Victoria Leeds teams up with international contemporary artist to celebrate a double anniversary for the city
A pair of giant, vibrant neon-green balloon dog sculptures has taken over Leeds city centre to mark a major double milestone in the city's cultural calendar.
The new interactive public art exhibition, titled ‘Two milestones, One Pop of Pride’, officially launched yesterday to celebrate both 20 years of Leeds Pride and the 10th anniversary of the Victoria Leeds shopping district.
Curated by Castle Fine Art in the Victoria Quarter, the installation brings the globally recognised work of contemporary artist Whatshisname - the artistic alias of Sebastian Burdon - directly to the public.
Over the last 15 years, Sebastian has built a massive international following for his humorous, pop-culture-inspired sculptures that challenge traditional street art.
The main attractions of the city-centre trail are two of Sebastian's iconic, oversized ‘POPek Balloon Dog’ sculptures.
Shoppers can spot one sitting directly on the historic central mosaic inside the Grade II-listed Victoria Quarter arcade, while its companion has been installed outside John Lewis in Victoria Gate.
"Bringing the POPek balloon dogs to such a vibrant and culturally rich city as Leeds is an absolute thrill," Sebastian said. "It’s hard to believe it’s been a decade since these playful, cheeky characters first came to life.
“I can’t wait for the people of Leeds to interact with them, feel that sense of nostalgia and humour, and join us in the celebrations."
The launch was marked by a VIP event hosted at the newly expanded venue The Cut & Craft, giving guests a sneak peek at the extended bar space ahead of its formal opening.
Jo Coburn, Victoria Leeds centre director, said the collaboration felt like the perfect way to anchor the city's summer celebrations: "As we mark 10 years of Victoria Leeds and 20 years of Leeds Pride, we wanted to create something memorable that reflects the city's creativity, inclusivity and vibrant cultural scene.”
"Whatshisname's work perfectly captures a sense of joy, individuality and self-expression."
Alongside the street art trail, Victoria Leeds will run live customer giveaway events across two upcoming weekends (July 11-12 July and July 17-18) with various prizes up for grabs.
The ‘Two milestones, One Pop of Pride’ exhibition runs daily from now until July 27.