In November 2024, Compass Festival returned for its seventh edition, with a whole month of interactive art across Leeds.
Trying Leeds Sauce inspired snacks at our launch party. Photo: Lizzie Coombes
We welcomed thousands of people over the month, presenting nine projects including a two-week installation in Leeds Kirkgate market, a digital wellness spa at Leeds Dock, and a series of projections illuminating the city with memories of queer joy.
‘A fantastically presented and performed piece of work, blending aesthetic and formal ambition. The best, most engaging and moving piece I’ve seen all year.’
Brightside attendee
SLAP Collective’s ‘Brightside’ was soundtracked by millennial anthems. Photo: Lizzie Coombes
From the high-energy, playful performance of SLAP Collective’s Brightside (that takes the form of spin class), to the gentle, but complex reflection prompted by Loose Ends, Polite Rebellion’s installation at Trinity shopping centre, the 2024 festival presented a constellation of opportunities to move and sing together; pause and ponder; meet and connect.
‘I came alone to this event, but it was wonderful forming conversations with strangers whilst sharing food!’
Leeds’ Low Carbon Chinatown Supper Club attendee
Our after-hours Supper Club hosted at Leeds Kirkgate Market. Photo: Jules Lister
Over the festival, a book was handmade and passed over to Leeds Central Library as part of Quarantine’s Building of spines; 60 people were served a communal Chinese feast as part of Ling Tan’s Low Carbon Chinatown; and 15 of Leeds indie cafes, delis and bars joined in Leeds Sauce Week, putting the flavour of Leeds on the menu.
‘A fascinating idea. Thought provoking.’
Sounds Like Home attendee
On our ‘Sounds Like Home’ walks we tuned into the city’s soundscapes. Photo: Lizzie Coombes
Many projects built on relationships with collaborators and participants established during the festival’s residency year – including Alisa Oleva’s Sounds Like Home and Ling Tan’s Leeds’ Low Carbon Chinatown. Amy Lawrence’s SHARING PLATTER and Popeye Collective’s Leeds Sauce Week grew from the artists’ respective work as part of Compass Festival 2022.
‘It is a very interesting exhibition. A lot of interesting insight to illustrate the importance of sustainability but the need to balance it with other requirements.’
Leeds’ Low Carbon Chinatown installation attendee
This exhibition explored the environmental impact and cultural heritage of ingredients used in the Supper Club. Photo: Jules Lister
On the street, in the market, on the menu – Compass Festival 2024 unfolded across the city of Leeds, creating unexpected art encounters in familiar locations.
Passersby dropped in to ‘Loose Ends’ at Trinity shopping centre and reflected on their family trees and care networks. Photo: Jules Lister
Thanks to everyone who joined us for 2024, and to the 11 artists who shared their work with us!
