Two Leeds School of Arts students have curated a major exhibition bringing together works by some of the world’s most celebrated artists alongside contributions from across the university community. From My Bed, which opens to the public on Wednesday 29 April, examines art created from the bed – whether through illness, financial necessity or political protest.

The exhibition was originally conceived by Joanne Tiffany, a Level 6 Fine Art student, and developed in collaboration with MA Fine Art student Abbie Bruff. The pair have spent months negotiating loans from institutions including Leeds Art Gallery and Wakefield Mental Health Museum and have secured permissions for works from the studios of both Mary McCartney and Yoko Ono.

Among the highlights is a photograph by Mary McCartney titled Being Frida (2000), which depicts artist Tracey Emin – known for her celebrated My Bed piece – dressed as Frida Kahlo, who created much of her work from her bed following a serious accident. McCartney’s studio has agreed to gift the work – an authenticated studio proof c-print — to Leeds Beckett’s permanent collection following the exhibition.

The exhibition also features live musical contributions at its opening from Leeds-based singer-songwriter duo Milly Renu (Milly Renu and Poppy Hartley), who perform dreamy indie-folk inspired by the female experience and personal introspection.

The project has also involved Level 5 Graphic Design student Jude Drake, who produced all promotional materials, alongside partner organisations Outside-In and In-Transit, who will deliver workshops on audio descriptions and diversifying access to the arts.

“Joanne and Abbie have done an amazing job communicating directly with artists’ studios, museums and galleries. The chosen theme has really struck a chord with so many people and artworks, seeing the bed as a safe private space that has, on occasion, become the artists’ only studio space from which to create.”

Dr Alan Dunn, Reader in Art & Design, Leeds Beckett University

“From My Bed has been enlightening and difficult for me. Finding so many connections and seeing so many connect with the theme has been a positive. The White Column has assisted me in developing my curatorial practice and built the confidence to reach out, craft connections and collaborate.”

Joanne Tiffany, Level 6 Fine Art student, Leeds Beckett University

“Co-curating From My Bed has pushed me deeper into not only my practice, but my understanding of how exhibitions happen. I am thrilled to have helped create an exhibition that resonates with people.”

Abbie Bruff, MA Fine Art student, Leeds Beckett University

Exhibition details

Opening event: Wednesday 29 April, 2-4pm. Free and open to the public. Live music included. Attendance at the opening event requires prior registration via Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/from-my-bed-exhibition-launch-tickets-1985508410103?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Venue: White Column project space, Broadcasting Place ‘B’ Building (ground floor), Leeds Beckett University, Leeds.

Dates: 29 April – 8 May 2026.

Public viewing: After the opening, the exhibition is viewable by the public through the White Column windows and via the website.

More information: whitecolumn.art/from-my-bed