Leeds groundbreaking Hip Hop exhibition claims global award

A display that honors the past of Hip Hop and its links to Leeds has won a prize at the Museums + Heritage Awards.

The event named 'A Hip Hop Journey: 50 Years Of Kulture' took place in Leeds City Museum between July 2023 and March 2024. It aimed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first-ever block party and the establishment of the kulture.

The exhibition, which was put together in collaboration with Leeds Museums and Galleries and the Hip Hop Historian Society, was the first time that the history and influence of the pioneering hip hop movement in Leeds had been on display.

Teaming up with talented artists from the Leeds and Yorkshire area, popular music stores, and local communities, the display showcased various items and narratives that highlighted the imaginative side of Hip Hop, along with its principles of fairness, tranquility, regard, self-esteem, and unity.

The fact that it was given the award for Temporary or Touring Exhibition of the Year (Budget under £80k) at the Museums + Heritage Awards means that it has gained international recognition.

The worldwide recognition event honors the top-notch establishments in the field of museums, galleries, and cultural and historical places that people visit. It occurred on the evening of May 15th in London.

During the event, the Learning and Access team at Leeds Museums and Galleries were recognized with a distinguished commendation for their outstanding contribution to the Museums and Heritage Sector Impact Award. This particular team stands out as one of the industry pioneers for providing inclusive learning experiences in museums and galleries.

The deputy leader and executive member for economy, culture and education at Leeds City Council, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, expressed his happiness upon learning that the exhibition has been recognized with an award. He added that the exhibition was a valuable asset to the LEEDS2023 programme.

The exhibition truly highlighted the abundant cultural history of Leeds and provided visitors with an authentic experience. The recognition for this accomplishment is rightfully earned.

The community engagement manager of Leeds Museums and Galleries, Esther Amis-Hughes, expressed her joy over winning the award. She also mentioned that they are thrilled to have established a firm bond with the Hip Hop Historian Society throughout the years. This achievement has made them extremely proud.

The display was very triumphant with attendees and workers, and demonstrated the importance of working together with the community. "A Hip Hop Journey" was a genuine effort that resulted in a stimulating and community-driven exhibition. Not only that, it demonstrated how museums can shatter expectations, offer diverse narratives, and have a beneficial influence on individuals.

Lee Arnold, also known as King Monk, who is the creator of the Hip Hop Historian Society, expressed his admiration for the group's remarkable accomplishments. He feels proud of the fact that a small community-led organization has been able to make such a significant and well-respected impact globally. He attributes the group's success to many years of planning and effort, and believes that this achievement is only the beginning of many more accomplishments to come in the future.