With [uz]: Poetry, Art & Conversation

Join ‘[uz]’ and guest artist George Storm Fletcher for an evening of art, poetry, and conversation inspired by the ‘[uz], [uz], [uz]’ exhibition.

*Please note this event is for students only. Please register for a place using your University email.* 

This creative evening will explore the relationship between exhibiting artist George Storm Fletcher’s practice, Tony Harrison’s poem ‘Them and [uz]’, and themes of working-class identity.  

We’ll kick things off with an artist talk from George Storm Fletcher, who will share insights into their practice, life as an artist, and their strong connection to Tony Harrison’s poetry, followed by a short Q&A.  

Next, the University of Leeds Spoken Word Society will perform a special reading of ‘Them and [uz]’ by Leeds-born poet Tony Harrison (1937-2025). A powerful and provocative commentary on class division and cultural exclusion, the poem inspired the title of the exhibition [uz], [uz], [uz]. Drafts of the poem are also held in the Tony Harrison Archive within Cultural Collections & Galleries at the University of Leeds.  

Throughout the evening, you can also take part in a coinciding creative workshop inspired by both the exhibited artwork and Harrison’s poetry. Create your own response and take home a small piece of art with you!  

With a tasty selection of snacks and refreshments provided, this free event offers a welcoming space to engage with art, poetry, and ideas.  

Organised by Cultural Collections Engager interns Estie, Caitlín, Baraa, and Alex, the evening is designed by students, for students at the University of Leeds.  

Come along, bring your curiosity, and experience the exhibition in a whole new way! 

Access Information

Getting here

• This event is in The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery, in Parkinson Building. There is step-free access – see our Visit information for more details. 

Sensory

• The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery is a bright space with white walls. It can sometimes be quite cold.  

• You are welcome to borrow anything you like from the ACCESSories Hub in The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery during the event. Please remember to return the items before you leave. 

• Parkinson Court, just outside the gallery, is a large space with very tall ceilings. It can be echoey and noisy if there are a lot of people. 

In the Room

• In the gallery there are artworks on the walls, and some sculptures on plinths and freestanding in the middle of the floor.  

• Outside the gallery in Parkinson Court there will be tables and benches for crafting and refreshments. 

What to Expect

• The event could be busy with a crowd of people. Some might be gathered around in the gallery for an artist talk and a poetry reading. Other people might be outside the gallery chatting, doing creative activities, or having refreshments.  

• You will be able to move between the spaces freely throughout the evening, and come and go as you wish. 

You can find more information about getting here, what to expect in our spaces, nearby facilities and additional access resources in the Visit information on our website. If you can't find what you're looking for or have any other questions, please email us at gallery@leeds.ac.uk and we'll be happy to help.