Words: Sarah Pearson
Photos: Mike Winnard & Lester Drake
Armley residents have celebrated the unveiling of four neighbourhood murals.
Celebrations took place at Assembly House on Canal Road on Saturday 21st September where residents enjoyed live music and a BBQ, as well as free beer courtesy of Northern Monk Brewery.
There were walking tours of the murals on Armley Park Road, Aviary View and Aviary Place. There was also a chance to meet the artists Josh, Rachel, Sian and George.
Photos by Mike Winnard.
The artists have been specially commissioned by the Armley Murals Project, which is based at Assembly House, an artist-led gallery and studios. The project was set up in response to local residents, who were looking for positive ways to combat graffiti in the area.
Organiser Mike Winnard, of Assembly House said:
“We’ve involved the whole community at every stage of the project. The murals themselves, as well as their locations, were carefully chosen with the full support of residents.”
Photos: Lester Drake.
When chatting about the Welcome to Armley mural on Armley Park Road, Mike said that it’s based on drawings of Armley landmarks that children from neighbouring streets created for them.
Local resident Hayley said:
“It was great to see so many people at the unveiling party, and I really enjoyed the walking tour and seeing the finished murals. It’s really inspired me to think about creative ways that I could get involved in my local community.”
As well as improving community spaces, the project is passionate about supporting new and emerging talent. As part of their commission, the artists will also receive mentoring sessions and follow-up support from professional, full-time mural artists living and working in Leeds.
There are plans to expand the project and create more murals in the area, with the ongoing support of residents, community groups and Leeds City Council.
Anyone wanting to find out more can email Mike at Assembly House at info@assemblyhouse.art.
You can also visit the Assembly House website.