Leeds International Festival of Ideas is swiftly becoming a stand-out festival across the county and beyond.
As Yorkshire's biggest celebration of ideas and culture, the four-day festival held annually at the end of September brings together a range of speakers and always leaves us with some food for thought.
And this year was no different.
2023 welcomed an electric line-up of the UK's biggest names, including the likes of Steven Bartlett, Ruby Wax OBE, Davina McCall MBE and Bimini.
An estimated audience of 5,000 people visited Leeds Playhouse over the four days, listening to a whopping 39 different speakers across 11 events and two stages - making this the biggest LIFI to date.
As (very proud) media partners for Leeds International Festival of Ideas, you might have spotted The Hoot team out and about at the events, or asking people 'what do you think will be the next big thing', inspired by Dragon's Den speaker Steven Bartlett on the opening night.
Curiosity and conversation are always two key expectations at each festival but the themes always range vastly. The 2023 festival brought us thoughts on mindfulness and mental health; class and the arts; 'a world beyond binary' and panels discussing everything from true crime and politics to women's health and grief.
Ahead of the festival, organiser Martin Dickson, Leeds International Festival of Ideas said : “This year's festival promises to be an exciting and thought-provoking event, and we are proud to have an exceptional line-up of speakers and performers. We look forward to welcoming attendees from all over the world to Leeds and creating a space for dialogue and discussion."
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Leeds
A breathtaking giant sculpture of the sun has arrived in Yorkshire for the summer
Clementine Hall
A giant model of the sun is now illuminated in Wakefield.
The sun has arrived in Wakefield… and we’re not just referring to that one that’s popped up in the sky at long last (sort of).
We’re taking about Helios, the amazing art installation that’s about to stop off at Wakefield Exchange as it tours around the UK.
Created by renowned artist, Luke Jerram, the beautiful art piece measures a whopping seven-metres in diameter and has been created using images captured by NASA.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Helios builds on the success of Luke Jerram’s previous installations in Wakefield, including the hugely popular Museum of the Moon.
With its striking scale and rich scientific detail,the artwork provides a safe and captivating way to encounter the Sun up close, highlighting everything from solar flares to the phenomena that created the unforgettable Northern Lights visible across the UK in 2024.
Stepping beneath the breathtaking glowing sculpture, audiences can experience an atmospheric fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially commissioned surround‑sound composition that brings the science and mystery of our nearest star vividly to life.
Alongside the striking sun instillation, Wakefield Exchange will present a full programme of free, family‑friendly, space‑themed activities throughout the summer.
Visitors can enjoy hands‑on workshops, creative crafts, dressing‑up sessions and playful drop‑in experiences.
Helios will be hosted by Wakefield Exchange from Friday 12 June until Sunday 6 September 2026, and you can find out more here on their website.
Sophie Smith -
4th October 2023 
