Leeds Street Art Trail

In the heart of Leeds, a monumental mural stands as a beacon of hope and unity. ‘You & Me, Me & You’ is a striking black and white artwork that towers up to 88-feet high, visible from both the street and the River Aire.

This permanent public installation graces the side of 32 The Calls, making a bold statement in the city’s historic centre.

• Location: 32 The Calls, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7EW (Google Map Directions)
• Dimensions: Up to 88 feet high
• Year created: 2021 (during the COVID-19 lockdown)

Artist Profile

Anthony Burrill, the acclaimed graphical artist behind this masterpiece, brings a personal connection to Leeds. Having studied Graphic Design at Leeds Beckett University, Burrill expressed his joy at creating a permanent artwork in the city where he honed his craft.

• Website: anthonyburrill.com
• Instagram: @anthonyburrill

Burrill is known for his distinctive style, combining bold typography with powerful, often uplifting messages.

Artwork Details

The mural features striking black and white lettering, spelling out “You & Me, Me & You” in Burrill’s signature style. This simple yet profound message is designed to resonate with viewers, emphasising connection and unity.

The piece was created using large-scale printing techniques, allowing for the impressive size and clarity of the lettering. The monochrome palette ensures maximum visibility and impact, making the artwork impossible to miss against the Leeds skyline.

Commissioning Information

This project was a collaborative effort, bringing together various local entities:

• Curated by Laura Wellington of In Good Company, a Leeds-based organisation known for bringing colour to the city through public art projects
• Supported and funded by King & Co, a local property company
• Installed by Bread Collective, a multidisciplinary studio

How to Find It

The mural is prominently displayed on the side of 32 The Calls, in the historic city centre of Leeds. It’s easily visible from both the street and the River Aire.

Stand by the Sphere Status in front of Ambiente and look up the side of the Aire Bar building.

Additional Resources

• In Good Company: @ingoodcompanyleeds
• King & Co Leeds: @kingandcoleeds
• Laura Wellington (Curator): @laurawelli

In the heart of Leeds city centre, a striking mural pays tribute to rugby league legend Rob Burrow. This captivating piece of urban art showcases Burrow in his iconic Leeds Rhinos blue jersey, smiling and in his prime. The mural adorns the Portland Building of Leeds Beckett University on Woodhouse Lane, just a short walk from the Headingway ground where Burrow made history.

• Location: Portland Building, Leeds Beckett University, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3HE (Google Maps Direction)

 

Artist Profile

Akse P19, also known as James Archer, is a 30-year-old street artist based in Leeds. Akse P19 has gained recognition for his ability to capture the essence of his subjects, often choosing to depict local heroes and inspirational figures.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akse_p19

Artwork Details

The mural depicts Rob Burrow in his Leeds Rhinos jersey. This image was carefully chosen to represent Burrow “in all his glory,” capturing the spirit and positivity that have defined both his rugby career and his battle with motor neurone disease (MND).

The artist used spray paint to create this photorealistic portrait, showcasing his skill in capturing life-like details and emotions. The mural took two days to complete due to weather conditions, demonstrating the artist’s dedication to the project.

Context and Significance

This mural was created to honour Rob Burrow’s remarkable contributions both on and off the rugby field. As a player, Burrow won eight Super League championships and earned 20- international caps. However, his impact extends far beyond his sporting achievements.

In 2019, Burrow was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. Since then, he has become an inspiration to many through his positive attitude and tireless efforts to raise awareness and funds for MND research. The mural serves as a testament to Burrow’s enduring legacy and his impact on the Leeds community.

Commissioning Information

The mural was commissioned as a collaborative effort by Leeds City Council, BBC Sport, and Leeds Rhinos. This project is part of a larger initiative to recognise local heroes and their contributions to the city of Leeds.

Best Viewing

The mural is best viewed from the front of Leeds Beckett University, just across the road from the Dry Dock pub.

Additional Resources

• Leeds Rhinos official website for more information about Rob Burrow’s career and ongoing MND campaign
• MND Association for details on how to support MND research and care

The Cornucopia mural, a vibrant and iconic piece of public art, stands proudly beside the historic Corn Exchange in Leeds city centre. Created in 1990, this impressive artwork has become a familiar landmark, brightening the area and celebrating the city’s heritage.

• Location: Adjacent to the Leeds Corn Exchange (Google Maps Location)
• Year created: 1990
• Recognition: Recipient of the Leeds Award for Architecture and the Environment

Artist Profile

Graeme Willson, the talented artist behind the Cornucopia mural, was a native of nearby Ilkley. A graduate of Reading University, Willson enjoyed a diverse career in the arts, most notably:

• Worked across various artistic mediums
• Lectured at several art institutions
• Created numerous public artworks and mural

Graeme sadly passed away in 2018 after a battle with cancer.

Website: http://www.graemewillson.co.uk/

Artwork Details

The Cornucopia mural is a rich tapestry of imagery and symbolism:

• Prominently features the Leeds Corn Exchange building
• Depicts the goddess Cornucopia, symbolising abundance and prosperity
• Incorporates themes of harvest and plenty
• Showcases architectural details and classical features
• Cleverly integrates with its surroundings, painted on the side of a former chip shop

As noted by a critic: “His paintings do not replace, de-nature or dissolve the wall; neither are they arbitrary easel paintings hung on it. Each is completely integrated into the architecture for which it is intended, with an enviable and exemplary alertness to the key features of its surroundings and to their potential for reassembly into powerful original composition.”

Context and Significance

The Cornucopia mural was commissioned during the renovation of the neighbouring Corn Exchange, with the aim of revitalising the area. It has since become an integral part of Leeds’ urban landscape, serving as a visual representation of the city’s history and prosperity.

Commissioning Information

The mural was sponsored by the Corn Exchange itself, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the local environment and supporting the arts.

How to Find It

The mural is easily visible when standing near the bus stops by the Corn Exchange. Its prominent location ensures it’s a hard-to-miss feature of the Leeds cityscape.

Nearby Attractions

• Leeds Corn Exchange: A historic Victorian building now housing independent retailers and eateries
• Kirkgate Market: One of the largest indoor markets in Europe
• Leeds City Centre: Numerous shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions within walking distance

Photography Tips

• The best vantage point is from the bus stops near the Corn Exchange
• Try to capture both the mural and the Corn Exchange building in one shot to show the connection
• Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the vibrant colours of the mural

Conservation and Maintenance

As a significant piece of public art and a recipient of a prestigious award, it’s likely that the mural is subject to regular maintenance to preserve its vibrancy and structural integrity.

Interactive Elements

While the mural itself is not interactive, its central location makes it a popular backdrop for photos. Visitors are encouraged to share their pictures on social media using hashtags like #CornucopiaMural and #LeedsPublicArt to engage with the wider community.

Athena Rising is an awe-inspiring mural that dominates the Leeds skyline. Located on the towering Platform building on New Station Street, this monumental piece of street art is impossible to miss.

• Location: Platform building, New Station Street, Leeds (Google Map Location)
• Dimensions: 46.8 metres (153 feet) tall, 11 metres wide
• Year created: 2017
• Claim to fame: UK’s tallest mural

Artist Profile

Athena Rising was created by Nomad Clan, a duo of Manchester-based graffiti artists known for their large-scale murals and distinctive style.

• Artists: Nomad Clan
• Style: Large-scale street art with symbolic and cultural references
• Website: www.nomadclan.co.uk
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomad.clan

Artwork Details

Athena Rising features several symbolic elements:

• An owl, which is Leeds’ mascot and a popular feature in the city’s street art
• The moon, connecting to ancient symbolism and mythology
• A crown, representing the city’s importance
• Gold sacred geometry, inspired by mathematics in nature

The mural took 7-months of planning and design work, followed by 16-days of painting using a sky lift.

Context and Significance

Athena Rising is part of the citywide street art project ‘A City Less Grey’, initiated by East Street Arts and funded by LeedsBID (Leeds Business Improvement District). This project aims to animate the city and incorporate artworks into Leeds’ urban landscape.

The owl in the mural has deep symbolic meaning, representing intelligence, knowledge, wealth, learning, and transition. It connects to various cultural mythologies, including Greek goddess Athena and Roman goddess Diana.

Commissioning Information

• Project: ‘A City Less Grey’
• Initiated by: East Street Arts
• Funded by: LeedsBID (Leeds Business Improvement District)

How to Find It

The mural is easily visible from many parts of central Leeds, particularly:

• From Leeds City Train Station
• Along New Station Street
• From various vantage points in the city centre

Nearby Attractions

• Leeds City Train Station
• Trinity Leeds shopping center
• Leeds Corn Exchange
• Other ‘A City Less Grey’ artworks by Jo Peel, Joe Dickinson, Kasia Breska, and Mike Winnard

Photography Tips

• For a potrait picture, try photographing from a distance to capture the entire height
• Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the mural’s colours and details
• Include surrounding architecture for scale and context

Conservation and Maintenance

As a relatively recent addition to Leeds’ urban art scene, specific conservation information is not provided. However, given its significance and scale, it’s likely that measures are in place to maintain its condition.

Interactive Elements

While the mural itself is not interactive, its prominent location makes it a popular backdrop for photos. Visitors are encouraged to share their pictures on social media using hashtags like #AthenaRising, #ACityLessGrey, and #LeedsStreetArt.

Additional Resources

• East Street Arts – A City Less Grey
• https://www.instagram.com/aylo_nomad/
• https://www.instagram.com/cbloxx_/

The INSA X Moniker mural is a vibrant, eco-friendly masterpiece that adorns the side of Wharf Chambers in Leeds city centre. This carbon-conscious and waste-aware artwork is not just visually stunning but also actively contributes to environmental sustainability.

• Location: Side of Wharf Chambers, Leeds city centre (Google Map Location)
• Dimensions: 13 metres high, 11 metres wide
• Year created: 2019 (15th anniversary of INSA’s ‘Graffiti Fetish’)

Artist Profile

INSA is a globally recognised artist who returned to his home city of Leeds to create this impressive mural.

• Artist name: INSA
• Background: Started his graffiti and art career in Leeds over 20 years ago
• Instagram: Instagram – @insa_gram
• Website: https://insaland.com/
• Notable works: Creator of ‘Graffiti Fetish’ and ‘GIF-ITI’, a new genre of art

Artwork Details

The INSA X Moniker mural is a striking blend of colour and symbolism:

• Features a rainbow sunset gradient background
• Bold linework communicates the need to protect Mother Earth
• Reflects interconnected human efforts to protect future generations and the planet
• Painted using Graphenstone Biosphere paint, the world’s most certified green brand
• The mural absorbs CO2, equivalent to an adult tree over three years

Context and Significance

This mural represents INSA’s first large-scale artwork in Leeds city centre, marking a significant return to his roots. It combines artistic beauty with environmental consciousness, setting a new standard for sustainable public art. The piece not only adds vibrancy to the urban landscape but also promotes awareness of environmental issues.

Commissioning Information

• Curated by: Moniker Art Fair
• Supported by: Yorkshire Design Group & LeedsBID
• Part of: A larger initiative to bring impactful, sustainable art to Leeds

How to Find It

To locate the mural:

1. Head under the railway bridge in Leeds city centre
2. Turn right onto the cobbled street
3. Look for Wharf Chambers – the mural is on its side wall

Best time to visit: Daylight hours to fully appreciate the vibrant colours, particularly during golden hour for enhanced sunset hues.

Nearby Attractions

• Wharf Chambers – A cooperative bar and venue
• Leeds Train Station – A short walk away
• Leeds city centre shops and restaurants

Photography Tips

• Capture the full mural from across the street for a complete view
• Visit during golden hour to enhance the rainbow sunset gradient
• Include pedestrians or nearby architecture for scale
• Try close-up shots to highlight the intricate linework and paint texture

Additional Resources

• Moniker Art Fair
• Graphenstone – Eco-friendly Paint

A bold and vibrant piece of public art that transforms an entire building into a contemporary masterpiece. This eye-catching mural brings a burst of colour to the streets of Leeds.

• Location: Corner of The Calls & Wharf St, opposite Calls Landing, Leeds (Google Map Location)
• Dimensions: 6783 sq ft of public art
• Year created: July 2019

Artist Profile

Mr Penfold is a renowned artist known for his distinctive style and vibrant colour palette.

• Artist name: Mr Penfold
• Background: Originally from Cambridge, England, now based in Bristol
• Website: mrpenfold.com
• Notable works: Large-scale murals and designs showcased worldwide

Artwork Details

The Graphical House mural is a testament to Mr Penfold’s unique artistic vision:

• Features the artist’s trademark style of colour, pattern, and texture
• Covers the entire exterior of the building, creating a new landmark for Leeds
• Utilises a distinctive and recognizable colour palette
• Completed in just 7-days, battling varied weather conditions

Context and Significance

This mural represents a significant addition to Leeds’ public art scene, transforming an ordinary building into a contemporary art piece. It has quickly become a local landmark, informally known as #PenfoldManor, and has sparked positive changes in attitudes towards public art in the city.

Commissioning Information

• Curated by: In Good Company
• Supported by: King and Co Leeds
• Part of: An initiative to bring bold, contemporary art to Leeds’ public spaces

How to Find It

The mural is easy to spot:

• Located on the corner of The Calls and Wharf Street
• Directly opposite Calls Landing

Best time to visit: Daylight hours to fully appreciate the vibrant colours. The mural’s scale and positioning make it visible throughout the day.

Nearby Attractions

• Calls Landing – A popular waterfront bar and eatery
• The Calls – A historic area with boutique shops and restaurants
• Leeds Corn Exchange – A Victorian-era building housing independent retailers
• Leeds Dock – A waterfront destination with shops, cafes, and events

Photography Tips

• Capture the full mural from across the street for a complete view
• Use wide-angle lenses to encompass the entire building
• Try different times of day to see how light affects the vibrant colours
• Include people or vehicles in your shots to provide scale

Additional Resources

• • In Good Company – Leeds Public Art Curators
  • King and Co Leeds

 

‘Here We Go Now’ is a vibrant and expansive mural that transforms the rear of the Hilton Leeds City Hotel into a colourful wonderland, enhancing the south entrance of Leeds Station.

• Location: Hilton Leeds City Hotel wall, Little Neville Street, Leeds (Google Map Directions)
• Dimensions: 20 metres tall at its highest point, 50 metres long
• Year created: 2023

Artist Profile

Josephine Hicks is a UK-based artist known for her ‘pop botanical’ style and large-scale murals.

• Artist name: Josephine Hicks
• Background: Fine Art graduate with a passion for screen printing and large-scale painting
• Website: josephinehicks.com
• Instagram: @hixxy

Artwork Details

‘Here We Go Now’ is a playful and vibrant mural that captures the essence of Leeds’ urban energy:

• Features walking fingers, rolling orbs, and climbing and descending stairs
• Incorporates rounded archways and angular steps, referencing the station’s architecture
• Uses a colour palette inspired by 1940s railway travel posters
• Combines way-finding elements with bold, infectious style
• Created by a team of 5-artists over 10-days

Context and Significance

This mural was commissioned to animate an important entry point to Leeds city centre. It celebrates the movement and flow of people arriving and departing the city, while adding a much-needed splash of colour to the urban landscape. The artwork’s unique style allows viewers to form their own narratives, giving it a timeless quality that aligns with the city’s forward-thinking approach to public art.

Commissioning Information

• Commissioned by: LeedsBID, Hilton Leeds City Hotel, and Moniker Culture
• Part of: An ongoing initiative to add colour and creativity to Leeds’ streets
• Supported by: Leeds BID

How to Find It

The mural is easily accessible and visible:

• Located on the wall of Hilton Leeds City Hotel on Little Neville Street
• Directly visible from the south entrance of Leeds Station
• A short walk from Leeds city centre

Best time to visit: Daylight hours to fully appreciate the vibrant colours and intricate details. The mural’s scale makes it visible throughout the day.

Nearby Attractions

• Leeds Train Station – The mural is at the south entrance
• Granary Wharf – A waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and bars
• Leeds City Centre – A short walk away, offering numerous attractions and amenities
• Other public artworks as part of Leeds’ growing urban art scene

Photography Tips

• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the 50-metre-long mural
• Try different angles to showcase the various elements and characters in the artwork
• Capture the mural with passing pedestrians to show its scale and integration with the urban environment
• Visit during different times of day to see how changing light affects the vibrant colours

Additional Resources

• LeedsBID – Information on city improvement initiatives
• Moniker Culture – Curators of public art projects
• East Street Arts – Leeds-based arts organization

‘ECHOES’ is a stunning mural that celebrates Leeds’ rich ceramics heritage, particularly the renowned Burmantofts pottery. This visually captivating piece blends traditional patterns with contemporary design.

• Location: Two-storey gable end of a former pub in Mabgate, Leeds (Google Map Location)
• Dimensions: Covers entire two-storey gable end
• Year created: 2023 (as part of Leeds 2023 Year of Culture)

Artist Profile

Add Fuel is the artistic name of Portuguese visual artist Diogo Machado, known for his innovative approach to traditional tile patterns.

• Artist name: Add Fuel (Diogo Machado)
• Background: Portuguese artist specializing in reinterpreting traditional tile designs
• Website: www.addfuel.com

Artwork Details

‘ECHOES’ is a complex and layered mural that rewards close inspection:

• Incorporates redesigned patterns from tiles found in Leeds’ iconic institutions
• Blends traditional decorative elements with contemporary designs
• Features unique images and characters with deep emotions
• Creates a symmetrical art piece that plays with visual interpretation
• Infuses redesigned Persian tiles, creating a blend of East and West

Context and Significance

This mural is a significant addition to Leeds’ cultural landscape, serving multiple purposes:

• Celebrates the area’s important ceramics heritage, particularly Burmantofts pottery
• Part of Leeds 2023, the city’s Year of Culture
• Contributes to the regeneration of Mabgate, creating a sense of identity
• Bridges past and present, creating “an echo of the past living vividly in the present”

Commissioning Information

• Commissioned by: Leeds Culture Trust Limited
• Part of: East Street Arts’ ‘A City Less Grey’ series
• Supported by: Leeds City Council (funding and support for Mabgate regeneration)

How to Find It

The mural is located in the Mabgate area of Leeds:

• Look for the two-storey gable end of a former pub in Mabgate
• Easily visible from the street due to its size and vibrant design

Best time to visit: Daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details and colours of the mural.

Nearby Attractions

• Other ‘A City Less Grey’ artworks:
  • ‘Athena Rising’ mural near Leeds Train Station
  • ‘Hare of Harehills’ outside The Compton Centre
  • ‘Common Ground’ at the old ABC cinema site on Vicar Lane
• Mabgate area – experiencing ongoing regeneration
• Leeds city centre – a short distance away with numerous amenities

Photography Tips

• Capture the full mural to showcase its scale and overall design
• Take close-up shots to reveal the intricate details and hidden characters
• Try different angles to highlight the interplay between traditional and contemporary elements
• Visit during different times of day to see how changing light affects the mural’s appearance

Additional Resources

• • Leeds 2023 – Year of Culture
  • East Street Arts – ‘A City Less Grey’ project
  • Leeds Museums – Burmantofts Pottery Collection

 

A series of vibrant, rainbow-colored murals adorning the exterior of Bridge Bar, celebrating Pride and adding a burst of colour to Leeds’ urban landscape.

• Location: Bridge Bar, Leeds (Google Map Directions)
• Dimensions: Multiple murals covering various wall spaces
• Year created: 2023

Artist Profile

These murals were created by an emerging local artist Karl Leeds. This project marks their first public commission and represents a significant milestone in their artistic journey.

• Background: A Leeds resident since childhood, now pursuing a passion for spray paint art
• Style: Vibrant, psychedelic portraits with rainbow colour schemes
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karl__leeds

Artwork Details

The Pride murals at Bridge Bar consist of multiple pieces, each with distinct characteristics:

• Corner Mural: A close-up of a person’s face, focusing on a smiling mouth and nose, rendered in psychedelic rainbow colours
• Larger Wall Mural: Features two main elements:
  • A partial face with an open mouth on the left
  • A central face with striking, detailed eyes and a piercing gaze

Context and Significance

These murals hold special significance for both the artist and the local community:

• Created specifically for Pride celebrations, representing inclusivity and diversity
• Marks the artist’s first public commission and a personal milestone
• Adds vibrancy to Leeds’ urban environment
• Potential inclusion in the official Leeds Mural Trail, cementing its place in the city’s artistic landscape

Commissioning Information

• Commissioned by: Gemma, associated with Bridge Bar
• Part of: Pride celebrations in Leeds

How to Find It

The murals are easily visible on the exterior of Bridge Bar:

• Located on the side and corner of the building
• The corner mural can be seen to the left side of the bar

Best time to visit: Daylight hours for the best view of the vibrant colours.

Nearby Attractions

• Bridge Bar itself – a popular venue for LGBT events
• Other bars and nightlife spots in the area

Photography Tips

• Capture the corner mural to showcase how it wraps around the building
• For the larger mural, try to get a full-width shot to include all elements
• Take close-ups of the detailed eyes and expressions
• Experiment with different angles to highlight the contrast between the vibrant art and the brick building

Additional Resources

• Leeds Pride – Official Website
• Bridge Bar Instagram

A stunning 50-foot high mural celebrating Leeds United’s promotion hero Pablo Hernandez, capturing an iconic moment in the club’s recent history.

• Location: Duck & Drake pub, Kirkgate, Leeds, UK (Google Map Location)
• Dimensions: 50 feet high
• Year created: 2020

Artist Profile

The mural was created by local Leeds artist Adam Duffield, known for his sports-themed artworks.

• Background: Leeds-based artist specialising in large-scale murals
• Notable works: Other Leeds United-themed artworks, including collaborations with player Mateusz Klich
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adam_duffield

Artwork Details

The mural depicts a crucial moment in Leeds United’s recent history:

• Captures Pablo Hernandez’s celebration following his winning goal against Swansea City
• Represents a pivotal moment in Leeds United’s promotion to the Premier League after 16-years
• Created using spray paint techniques
• Completed in just one week

Context and Significance

This mural holds deep significance for Leeds United fans and the local community:

• Commemorates Leeds United’s return to the Premier League after a 16-year absence
• Celebrates Pablo Hernandez’s crucial role in the club’s success
• Part of a larger initiative to create a mural tour across the city, celebrating the club’s rich history
• Voted for by Leeds United Supporters’ Trust members, ensuring fan involvement in the project

Commissioning Information

• Commissioned by: Leeds United Supporters’ Trust (LUST)
• Part of: A fan-funded project to create several Leeds United murals across the city
• Supporters: RIM Scaffolding (provided free scaffolding services)

How to Find It

The mural is prominently displayed in Leeds city centre:

• Located on the side of the Duck & Drake pub on Kirkgate
• Easily visible from the street, standing 50 feet high
• A short walk from Leeds Train Station and other city centre landmarks

Nearby Attractions

• Duck & Drake pub – A historic venue popular with Leeds United fans
• Kalvin Phillips mural – Another Leeds United-themed artwork nearby
• Leeds Kirkgate Market – Historic market hall a short walk away

Photography Tips

• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full 50-foot height of the mural
• Try different angles to showcase the scale of the artwork against the surrounding architecture
• Capture photos during different times of day to see how lighting affects the mural’s appearance

Additional Resources

• Leeds United Supporters’ Trust – Official Website

A stunning mural celebrating Leeds United’s diverse heritage, featuring current star Kalvin Phillips alongside club legends Albert Johanneson and Lucas Radebe.

• Location: The Calls, Leeds city centre (Google Map Location)
• Dimensions: 12 metres high
• Year created: 2021

Artist Profile

The mural was created by renowned French street artist Akse P19.

• Background: French street artist known for photorealistic murals
• Instagram: @akse_p19
• Website: www.akse-p19.com

Artwork Details

The ‘Paving the Way’ mural is a photorealistic masterpiece:

• Kalvin Phillips’ torso is the central focus, emblazoned on the 12-metre high wall
• Albert Johanneson is depicted above Phillips’ right shoulder
• Lucas Radebe is shown above Phillips’ left shoulder
• The New York City skyline is visible in the background, symbolizing the Roc Nation partnership
• Created using spray paint techniques to achieve a photorealistic effect
• Completed in just seven days, showcasing the artist’s skill and efficiency

Context and Significance

This mural holds multiple layers of significance for Leeds United and the city:

• Celebrates Leeds United’s diverse heritage by featuring players from different eras and backgrounds
• Marks the partnership between Leeds United and Roc Nation, a New York-based entertainment agency
• Highlights local talent in Kalvin Phillips, a Leeds-born player
• Adds to Leeds’ growing reputation as a city embracing street art
• Aims to increase Leeds United’s visibility in the United States

Commissioning Information

• Commissioned by: Leeds United in partnership with Roc Nation
• Part of: Celebration of the new collaboration between Leeds United and Roc Nation
• Supported by: Leeds United’s director of football, Victor Orta

How to Find It

The mural is prominently displayed in Leeds city centre:

• Located on The Calls, a street known for its historic warehouses
• Easily visible due to its size and prominent position
• A short walk from Leeds Train Station and other city centre landmarks

Best time to visit: Daylight hours for the best view of the detailed, photorealistic artwork.

Nearby Attractions

• Leeds Corn Exchange – Historic Victorian building with independent shops
• Leeds Kirkgate Market – One of the largest indoor markets in Europe
• Royal Armouries Museum – National museum of arms and armour
• Other street art pieces in the Leeds city centre

Photography Tips

• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full height of the 12-metre mural
• Try different angles to showcase the detail of each player’s portrait
• Capture photos during different times of day to see how lighting affects the mural’s appearance
• Include pedestrians or nearby architecture for scale

Additional Resources

• Leeds United FC – Official Website
• Roc Nation – Official Website

A vibrant and welcoming 20-metre mural on the exterior wall of the iconic Leeds Kirkgate Market, greeting visitors to the city with a colourful “Hello and Welcome to Leeds”.

• Location: George Street wall of Leeds Kirkgate Market (Google Map Location)
• Dimensions: 20 metres long
• Year created: 2015

Artist Profile

The mural was created by Leeds-based illustrator Nathan Evans.

• Background: Leeds-based illustrator known for vibrant, typography-focused artworks
• Website: n-evans.com

Artwork Details

The George Street Welcome mural is a perfect blend of historical nod and modern design:

• Hand-drawn letters spell out “Hello and Welcome To Leeds”
• Typography reflects the Victorian origins of the market buildings
• Vibrant color palette and geometric background root the work in the 21st century
• Features an interactive spot for visitors to take photos framed by the artwork
• Created using outdoor paint, withstanding the elements for long-lasting impact

Context and Significance

This mural holds multiple layers of significance for Leeds:

• Welcomes visitors arriving at the nearby city bus station
• Celebrates the opening of John Lewis and Victoria Gate
• Part of an initiative to animate key city centre locations
• Brightens up an area undergoing major change
• Contributes to Leeds’ growing reputation as a city embracing street art

Commissioning Information

• Commissioned by: Leeds Business Improvement District (LeedsBID)
• Part of: ‘A City Less Grey’ initiative and Leeds City Council’s Unfold programme
• Supported by: Leeds City Council

How to Find It

The mural is prominently displayed and easy to find:

• Located on the George Street wall of Leeds Kirkgate Market
• Directly visible when exiting Leeds Bus Station
• A short walk from Leeds Train Station and city centre

Best time to visit: Daylight hours for the best view of the vibrant colours. The market’s opening hours may provide opportunities for exploring the area further.

Nearby Attractions

• Leeds Kirkgate Market – One of the largest indoor markets in Europe
• Victoria Gate and John Lewis – Modern shopping destinations
• Leeds Bus Station – Major transport hub

Photography Tips

• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full 20-metre length of the mural
• Take advantage of the interactive photo spot designed into the artwork
• Capture the contrast between the colourful mural and the historic market building
• Include people in your shots to show scale and the mural’s welcoming nature

Additional Resources

• LeedsBID – Official Website