A new mural has been created on the wall of our St Mary’s Street community base as part of a wider public space project exploring the Kirkgate area of Leeds.

Artist Mike Winnard worked with us to create an eye catching artwork that includes the Emmaus name and a giant dove. The finished mural is now on show to the public on the outer wall at Emmaus Leeds’ community base.

“This mural for Emmaus Leeds is my re-imaging of the iconic Emmaus hand/dove logo.”

Mike Winnard, Artist, commented: “This mural for Emmaus Leeds is my re-imaging of the iconic Emmaus hand/dove logo. The piece is a precursor to a larger piece I’m planning on Kirkgate exploring the history of the area and people’s perceptions of public space. The Common Ground project has centred on asking people in Leeds, what is important to you in public space?”

Common Ground is a personal exploration of Kirkgate, the oldest street in the city of Leeds. Mike is currently researching the history, stories, myths, landmarks and people of the area to find out what ‘public space’ means to people in Leeds. The project is part of A City Less Grey; a series of street art installations commissioned by East Street Arts and Leeds BID.

Donald Forrester, Chief Executive at Emmaus Leeds, said: “Our new mural is a great addition to the Emmaus base in the heart of Leeds and adds some colour to an otherwise drab brick wall. On behalf of everyone at Emmaus Leeds we would like to thank Mike and wish him well with the ongoing Common Ground project.”

Emmaus Leeds supports 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a stable home and meaningful work for as long as they need it. The charity has its main base and shop at St Mary’s Street and a stall at Kirkgate Market where they sell donated furniture, clothes, books, bikes, household goods and upcycled products.

You can see some of the development and research for the Common Ground project and at www.commongroundleeds.co.uk. To contribute to Common Ground contact [email protected].

To support Emmaus Leeds visit www.emmaus.org.uk/leeds. For more information call 0113 248 4288 or visit Emmaus Leeds at St Mary’s Street, Leeds, LS9 7DP.