Leeds Unveils ‘Ribbons’ Sculpture Celebrating 383 Inspirational Women

Leeds City Council has revealed a striking new public artwork, “Ribbons,” created by renowned artist Pippa Hale. This installation, designed to honor the contributions of 383 women throughout the city’s history, addresses the gender imbalance in public art and highlights the achievements of women from diverse backgrounds. Positioned in a prominent location within the city, the sculpture serves as a testament to the groundbreaking work of these remarkable women, whose names are inscribed on a series of flowing ribbons that grace the structure.

The ribbon-like design of the sculpture represents not only the interconnectedness of these women’s achievements but also symbolizes the continued efforts to recognize and amplify the voices of women in public spaces. The names featured on the sculpture span a wide range of sectors, including sports, literature, politics, education, and the arts, showcasing the vast scope of female influence across different industries.

Among those honored are Olympic gold medalist Nicola Adams, who made history as the first female boxer from Great Britain to win an Olympic gold medal, and celebrated author Barbara Taylor Bradford, whose best-selling novels have touched the hearts of millions. Their inclusion in the sculpture highlights the role of women in shaping the city’s identity and advancing social progress.

The “Ribbons” sculpture is not just a tribute to these individual women but also a call to action to promote greater gender equality in public art and historical recognition. The project, launched as part of Leeds’ broader commitment to diversity and inclusion, aims to inspire future generations of women to pursue their goals without being held back by outdated norms or underrepresentation.

This installation is one of several recent efforts by the city to reframe its historical narrative, ensuring that the accomplishments of women are celebrated in ways that reflect their true impact. By creating a physical space where these women’s legacies are immortalized, Leeds seeks to make visible the often-overlooked contributions of women and to foster a sense of pride and ownership in the community’s shared history.

“Ribbons” stands as a powerful reminder that women’s contributions have always been an integral part of the city’s development, and through this installation, their voices will continue to resonate for years to come. The sculpture is a fitting tribute to their achievements and offers an enduring symbol of the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the arts and beyond.