We explored the Leeds Corn Exchange’s history as a meeting place for subcultures in the city, and as an iconic building that holds many precious memories for local goths, punks, moshers and emos.

Eating The Corn Exchange brought this rich cultural history to life, creating a moment to remember with taste, smell, sight, sound and touch.

Taking over the basement area, we installed a set which drew on references from subculture music and fashion, the Corn Exchange’s architecture, and history as a place for trading corn. We served up a corn taco based menu, where audiences were invited to load up with garnishes which drew upon these cultural references. After taking time to explore the set and pick up their food, we collectively listened to a soundscape via headphones, which included interviews overlaid with music, including tracks from up and coming local bands who recorded new songs as part of the project. 

100 people experienced this event. 

We interviewed 15 people who identify within alternative subcultures from the 1970s through to now. We included excerpts their interviews in our soundscape, and some full interviews were contributed towards Historic England’s Missing Pieces project. 

Local radio station Chapel FM ran a 3 part show about the project: https://www.chapelfm.co.uk/?s=Edible+archives

Colours May Vary held some portable cassette and CD players in their shop, for people listen to the soundscape in the Corn Exchange after the event had taken place.

Credits

Lead artists - Harry Jelley and Sonia Sandhu
Sound Piece - shi Blank
Set Building - Michelle Wren
Sign Painting and Set Support - Jenna Greenwood
Event Support - Aaron Dhaliwal and Penny Moe