Exhibition Opening: FUAM 2026

Join us to celebrate the opening of FUAM 2026: The Friends of University Art and Music Graduate Art Prize.

Now in its 14th year, the FUAM exhibition showcases and celebrates the artistic talent of students completing BA studies in Art and Design and Fine Art at the University of Leeds in 2026. 

A panel of expert judges has selected four finalists for the prize. Join us to celebrate the work of these artists, and vote for your favourite in our People's Choice Award! 

This year’s finalists are: 

Laura Gooch (BA Art & Design)  

Marcus Hills (BA Art & Design)  

Izzy Cheyne Jones (BA Fine Art)  

Melissa Nesbitt (BA Fine Art)  

The FUAM Graduate Art Prize is generously supported by Friends of University Art and Music. 

Access Information

Getting Here

• This event is in The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery and the 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.   

• Parkinson Court is a high-ceilinged space with large columns on either side.  

• 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.  

In the Room

• In The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery there are artworks on the walls, and some sculptures on plinths or freestanding in the middle of the floor.   

• In Parkinson Court there will be a table with drinks outside The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery, and a screen and speaker. There will be a row of desks near the windows, these will be blocked off with barriers.  

What to Expect

• The event could be busy with a crowd of people. Some might be gathered around in the gallery looking at the artwork, others might be in Parkinson Court chatting and having drinks 

• At 6pm members of staff will encourage attendees into Parkinson Court for short welcome remarks.  

• 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.