Mural reflecting city's trading history restored

One of the most recognisable public artworks in Leeds has been given a "respectful refresh" to preserve it.

The 9.7m (32ft) tall 'Cornucopia' mural, on the side of a building near Leeds Corn Exchange and Kirkgate Market, was painted by Ilkley-based artist Graeme Willson in 1990.

It depicts the goddess Cornucopia - a symbol of abundance and prosperity - alongside a series of images reflecting the city's rich trading history.

The restoration work was carried out by local artist Ralph Replete and supported by Leeds City Council. It was funded by property developer Rushbond, which owns the Corn Exchange, in partnership with Leeds Civic Trust.

The mural, on the side of a building occupied by vintage clothes shop Blue Rinse, won the Leeds Award for Architecture and the Environment the year it was unveiled.

It shows the goddess alongside a picture of the Corn Exchange, which opened in 1864 as a trading hub for local grain merchants, millers and agricultural traders.

Working on its restoration, Replete hand-cleaned the mural to remove decay and grime before retouching it with the same specialist mineral paint Willson used.

Jonathan Maud, chair of Rushbond, described the mural as "an important part of Leeds' cultural heritage".

"Cornucopia was a wonderful gift to the city from the former owners of Leeds Corn Exchange and it deserved to be given a respectful refresh," he said.

Willson, who died in 2018, is considered by many as a pioneer of the public art movement.

He founded the Yorkshire Mural Artists' Group in 1978 with a view to bring art out of galleries and into public spaces where more people could see and appreciate it.

Lucy Wright, Willson's daughter, said: "Graeme was passionate about art that engaged with the public.

"He took so much inspiration from Leeds - the architecture, the culture and the people.

"We're delighted that this mural, which has been at the heart of the city for so many years, will continue to bring joy to everyone who sees it."

Martin Hamilton, director of Leeds Civic Trust, said: "This artwork is an important part of Leeds' visual heritage and occupies a significant position within the city's historic commercial core.

"We are pleased to help ensure its future and honour the wishes of its creator, who very much wanted to see the mural restored."

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