New Public Sculpture in Leeds Honor 400 Inspirational Women, From Suffragists to Olympians

In Leeds, nearly 400 women who thrived in their own field were celebrated through a massive public sculpture.

Made by Pippa Hale, the sculpture is called 'Ribbons,' which is in the same shape and design.

According to The Guardian, the names of the 400 women were imprinted on Ribbons. Hale explained that in Leeds, men are usually the face of old Victorian statues, which gave her an idea to address the gender imbalance of public art in the city. The artist also acknowledged that other countries have erected sculptures of historic women who are major players in suffrages or social reform movements. However, Ribbons does not just name one woman.

The Women of 'Ribbons' Sculpture

Some of the notable names in Ribbons sculpture include suffragist and social reformer, Isabella Ford, as well as Nicola Adams, who is a former Olympic boxer.

Unsung women heroes of Leeds were also mentioned, such as Tina Suryavansi and Rebekah Wilson, who dedicated her life to helping others. Tina managed the Homeless Hampers and Rebekah set up a charity organization called Zarach to address child poverty.

Pippa expressed her relief and happiness after the completion of Ribbons, considering the following five challenging years of building it (from September 2019 to August 2024). The sculpture is made up of steel strips and is located between Leeds Playhouse, the City College's Quarry Hill campus. It will be a permanent statue in the area, unless removed by the city council.

Alongside the artist, Ribbons was also created in partnership with Leeds' city college, arts university and city council.