Harehills ❤️ Love

Nestled within the heart of Harehills, St Aidan’s Church holds a hidden gem: a magnificent mosaic created by the renowned artist Sir Frank William Brangwyn. This stunning artwork, depicting the life of St Aidan, is a testament to both artistic brilliance and community spirit.

Sir Frank Brangwyn, a Welsh artist who lived from 1867 to 1956, was a true artistic force. His prolific career spanned decades and encompassed a staggering 12,000 works, including paintings, murals, etchings, and even furniture designs. His mastery of various mediums and his bold, expressive style earned him international acclaim.

Brangwyn’s artistic talent extended far beyond the walls of St Aidan’s. His works grace prestigious locations around the world, including murals at the Rockefeller Center in New York City and the House of Lords in London. His iconic painting, The Rolling Mill, captures the industrial energy of early 20th-century Britain and is now housed in Leeds Art Gallery. He also designed stunning stained glass windows for churches and cathedrals, and his vibrant posters promoted everything from wartime efforts to travel destinations. In recognition of his immense contributions to the art world, Brangwyn was awarded the prestigious Albert Medal by the Royal Society of Arts in 1932.

Brangwyn’s connection to St Aidan’s began with his friendship with the church’s first vicar. When the newly built church sought to adorn its apse with a grand artwork, Brangwyn was the natural choice. Initially commissioned to paint the space, he wisely opted for a more durable medium – a glass mosaic – recognising the potential damage that pollution could inflict on a painted masterpiece.

The creation of the mosaic was a monumental undertaking. Over 200,000 pieces of shimmering glass were meticulously assembled by skilled Italian craftsmen, bringing Brangwyn’s design to life. The mosaic depicts scenes from the life of St Aidan, a 7th-century Irish monk who played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity in Northumbria.

But the mosaic is more than just a religious depiction. It’s rich with symbolism, incorporating local landmarks like Kirkstall Abbey and the Leeds Parish Church, weaving the story of St Aidan into the fabric of Yorkshire. Furthermore, the mosaic includes figures representing diverse races and cultures, reflecting Brangwyn’s belief in the universality of human experience.

Recognising the importance of preserving this artistic treasure, the community rallied in the 1990s to restore the mosaic to its former glory. This collective effort speaks volumes about the value placed on art and heritage within Harehills.

The Brangwyn Mosaic stands as a testament to artistic vision, community spirit, and the enduring power of beauty. It’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, a reminder of the rich history and cultural vibrancy that thrives within Harehills. Next time you’re in the area, step inside St Aidan’s and experience the magic of Brangwyn’s masterpiece for yourself.