Lonny Chauhan: Along the Way

Opening: Wednesday 25 March 2026 5:00pm-7:00pm

Location: Leeds Arts University, Blenheim Walk, Leeds LS2 9AQ

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Leeds Arts University is proud to host the opening of an exhibition presenting 'Along the Way' by Lonny Chauhan. Chauhan was commissioned as part of the 2020-2025 Access and Participation Plan (APP) Commissions Programme. The evening will offer a chance to explore the works in further detail and hear from the artist, alongside a drinks reception.

For accessibility information, please email curatorial@leeds-art.ac.uk.

Following the opening, the works will be available to see until 20 June 2026 by appointment for external visitors by contacting curatorial@leeds-art.ac.uk.

‘Along the Way’ is a series of live sketches by artist Lonny Chauhan, who seeks to encourage friendly interaction between strangers and build a sense of community using art as the facilitator for human connection.

During each sketch, Chauhan engages in conversation with the person being drawn, encouraging them to share their own stories and experiences. These exchanges are later recorded as written reflections that accompany each drawing - together, image and text offer the viewer an intimate glimpse into these fleeting encounters.

As the project went on, Chauhan’s process evolved. Originally dedicating whole days to wandering around looking for strangers to draw, eventually he learned to let the moment arise naturally rather than trying to manufacture it. Chance encounters on trains, public benches and in bars have all led to drawings in this series. Eventually, through making connections in his hometown through his artwork, he also started having people book in at his local library to be drawn.

In an age where so many aspects of life have become increasingly digital, including connection with others, Chauhan stresses the importance of finding ways to maintain and nurture real, in-person interactions. He hopes that audiences viewing this exhibition see his own positive experiences interacting with others and feel inspired themselves to be more open to new experiences they may encounter ‘along the way’.