A Space to be Held

Location: The Library at Leeds Arts University, Blenheim Walk, Leeds LS2 9AQ

This exhibition is available to view from 10:00am-4:00pm Monday to Saturday by appointment only for external visitors. To arrange a visit, please email libraryadmin@leeds-art.ac.uk. Staff and students are not required to make an appointment.

Evie Crook’s work seeks to make space for quiet details in an increasingly loud and fast-paced world. Rooted in reflection, curiosity and investigation, Crook’s practice often begins with a humble thought, feeling or question, which is then carefully considered and explored to develop rich creative outcomes.

During her studies at Leeds Arts University, Crook developed an affinity with publication design, utilising the book as a medium to communicate her ideas. These books became a curated space, chosen and shaped with purpose, allowing others to enter, explore and experience the concepts at play in the work. Crook found that the intimate structure also invited a slower engagement with the minute or nuanced observations and narratives she sought to share.

‘A Space to be Held’ brings together her new collection of artist books made this year with the support of Leeds Arts University’s Creatives in Residence scheme. The books build on Crook’s existing practice by drawing on themes of environment, nostalgia and tactility. They also explore Crook’s recent research into Simone Weil’s philosophy of Rootedness and the psychologies of ‘soft fascination’, which assert the essential interconnectedness of human experience with the living world. These books are offerings through which we are invited to pause, slow down, pay attention to the ordinary, and find connection with and within it.

The themes are drawn out further by Crook’s selection of three books for display from Leeds Arts University’s Special Collection: 'Daily Weeding' by Olivia Laing, Yelena Moskovich and Kuba Ryniewicz; 'Pictures from Home' by Larry Sultan; and 'A Stranger in my Mother’s Kitchen' by Clair Marchbank.

Public event: 17 June 2026 1:00pm–2:00pm

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

At this workshop, Evie Crook will share some insights on the thematic and practical development of her new series of artist books on show in the University Library. Then she will guide in you a paper-based activity allowing you to experiment with some basic book-making and collage techniques. This mindful session is perfect for beginners but everyone is welcome.

Please note that booking is essential and places are limited. Click here to book your place.