A NEW super-powered display in Leeds will give visitors the chance to explore the colourful world of iconic costumed crimefighters.

Abbey House Museum’s Comics Unmasked, which open this month, features exciting objects on loan from the public including Marvel and DC comics, graphic novels and figurines of famous characters Iron Man, The Hulk, X-Men and Batman.

Also on display will be a Spider-Man comic signed by Marvel Comics legend Stan Lee and objects from the Leeds Museums and Galleries collection showcasing tiles like Dan Dare, Dandy, Beano, and Manga.

Patrick Bourne, assistant community curator, said: "The popularity of comic books and super heroes has absolutely skyrocketed in recent years and we’ve seen them grow to become a huge cultural phenomenon.

"This new display will give people a chance to explore their origins a bit more and think about just how and why these fantastical, colourful characters have captured the imaginations of millions of people across the world.

"It also looks at the different roles comics and graphic novella have played in the lives of people living in Leeds, from the big annual events they’ve inspired to the local businesses that have become part of the city centre."

The exhibition also looks at cosplaying- the popular performance art that sees people wear elaborate costumes and fashion accessories to look like a specific character.

Councillor Brian Selby, Leeds City Council’s lead member for museums and galleries, said: "Comics are currently at the forefront of pop culture and they have a massive influence over some of the biggest film, TV and leisure activities that are enjoyed by millions of people from many different cultures and backgrounds.

"No doubt in future, comics will be looked at as part of our history and heritage so it will be interesting to learn more about how they have grown to become such a phenomenon."

Comics Unmasked has been put together by the museum’s Vintage Youth Club, a group of young people aged 13 to 21.

The young people also appear throughout the exhibition as superhero characters which they have designed themselves, working with local artist Johnny Cosmic. Comics Unmasked is open at the museum in Kirkstall until July 16.

Visit http://www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/abbeyhouse/Comics-Unmasked.aspx for more details about activities linked to the display.