New Exhibition at Thackray Museum of Medicine Explores the Deep Connections of Blood

A groundbreaking new exhibition at Thackray Museum of Medicine, titled Blood:Ties and Tensions, delves into the complex and powerful role blood plays in medicine, culture, and society. Running for a limited time, this thought-provoking exhibition is co-curated with the Hematopolitics project, led by Dr Jieun Kim at the University of Leeds and offers a unique perspective on blood’s impact across history and global communities.

Through objects, real-life experiences, and original artwork, Blood: Ties and Tensions highlights life-saving medical procedures that have transcended societal and geographical boundaries, while also confronting the darker histories of blood in social and political division. The exhibition takes inspiration from pioneering research into the politics of blood donation in Japan and South Korea, shedding new light on objects from the Thackray collection.

At the heart of the exhibition is Vessel, a newly commissioned installation by artist Gemma Wood, a Yorkshire based artist who is renowned for boundary-pushing use of light and sound. Expanding across the gallery space, Vessel mimics the intricate patterns of blood vessels, creating an immersive experience that highlights the profound connection between blood donors and recipients.

Gemma Wood explains: “I wanted to create a protective space where you could go to think and talk… it feels like you are almost in the space of a body, where you can really feel the blood moving around you. Installation should be something that moves you, changes you, makes you feel different, and that’s what I was aiming for with this womb-like space.”

The exhibition also features The Blood Bag Project, led by Leigh Bowser, which showcases collaborative sessions held with Jini in Seoul and the Korea Leukemia Patients Organisation. Additionally, the museum worked with Sarah Chadwick, museum volunteers, and two community groups, Mohila Neer and Shore-Up Social Club, to create a series of blood donation posters inspired by personal experiences and historical designs from the museum’s collection, with all contributors credited in the exhibition.

Jack Gann, Curator at Thackray Museum of Medicine says: “As a museum, we are committed to expanding our programming to include more STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths) initiatives. Art has the power to bring medical science to life, helping engage new audiences beyond our traditional museum visitors. Our Fragile Microbiomes exhibition last year resonated with people who might not have otherwise connected with us and we are really excited to see where this one takes us.

Blood is more than just a vital fluid—it’s a symbol of life, connection, and sometimes, division. Gemma (the artist) has been a joy to work with, producing a huge body of work that makes this installation really special.”

In collaboration with the Hematopolitics project, Blood: Ties and Tensions, invites visitors to explore how this essential substance flows through science, medicine, and society, shaping our lives in ways we may not always recognise. The exhibition runs until 29 June 2025. 

As part of the new exhibition, April’s Insights lecture event will feature a special talk by Dr. Jieun Kim and Dr. Ros Williams (University of Sheffield), exploring the social and ethical implications of blood, as well as discussing more of the workings of the exhibition.