News.
VICTORIA LEEDS CELEBRATES DUAL MILESTONES WITH MAJOR PRIDE ART INSTALLATION BY INTERNATIONAL ARTIST WHATSHISNAME
10th July 2026
Victoria Leeds is set to celebrate two landmark anniversaries this summer with a special Pride activation featuring internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Whatshisname.
Marking 20 years of Leeds Pride and 10 years of Victoria Leeds, the exhibition called ‘Two milestones, One Pop of Pride’ is bringing a vibrant and playful public art experience to the heart of the city centre. The exhibition, curated by Castle Fine Art located in Victoria Quarter, will feature a collection of artworks and oversized sculptures by the artist, whose distinctive creations have earned a global following.
Behind the ironic moniker Whatshisname is artist Sebastian Burdon, who has spent more than 15 years making his mark on the contemporary art world through sculptures, prints and large-scale public art projects.
Known for creating thought-provoking works that blend humour, pop culture and social commentary, his pieces are designed to intrigue, surprise and spark conversation.
The centrepiece of the activation is two of Whatshisname’s iconic POPek Balloon Dog sculptures, which are being displayed at key locations across Victoria Leeds for visitors to enjoy throughout July. One will be positioned on the central mosaic in Victoria Quarter and the other outside John Lewis in Victoria Gate.
Victoria Leeds centre director, Jo Coburn, said: “This year presents a unique opportunity to celebrate two important milestones for Leeds. As we mark 10 years of Victoria Leeds and 20 years of Leeds Pride, we wanted to create something memorable that reflects the city’s creativity, inclusivity and vibrant cultural scene. Whatshisname’s work perfectly captures a sense of joy, individuality and self-expression, making it an ideal way to celebrate Pride with our visitors.”
The exhibition officially launched on Wednesday 8 July, at a VIP event attended by Whatshisname at the newly expanded The Cut & Craft, where guests enjoyed an array of canapes and cocktails and got an exclusive first look at the new extended bar venue ahead of its official opening.
Artist, Whatshisname, said: “Bringing the POPek balloon dogs to such a vibrant and culturally rich city as Leeds is an absolute thrill for me. It’s hard to believe it’s been a decade since these playful, cheeky characters first came to life. Over the years, they’ve travelled the world, sparking smiles wherever they go.
“I can’t wait for the people of Leeds to interact with them, feel that sense of nostalgia and humour, and join us in the Victoria Leeds and Leeds Pride celebrations!”
Alongside the exhibition, Victoria Leeds will be hosting a customer giveaway activation across two Pride-themed weekends on 11–12 July and 17–18 July, offering visitors the opportunity to engage with the celebrations and win a selection of prizes.
The activation forms part of Victoria Leeds’ wider programme of events and experiences designed to support Leeds Pride and bring communities together through culture, creativity and celebration.
The Whatshisname exhibition will be on display at Victoria Leeds from 8th – 27th July.
For more information visit www.victorialeeds.co.uk or follow @VictoriaLeeds_ on social media.