Harehills ❤️ Love

Yesterday, we explored the mystery of the Harehills “H,” a striking sculpture that stands as a symbol of community pride. Today, we hop over to another iconic artwork: the “Hare of Harehills.”

This whimsical sculpture, created by artist Ian Kirkpatrick and commissioned by East Street Arts, has been a beloved fixture in Harehills since its installation in early 2017. Located near the Compton Centre, the hare stands tall and proud, its metal frame adorned with colorful patterns and symbols that reflect the diversity and vibrancy of the community.

But the “Hare of Harehills” is more than just a pretty face. It represents the resilience and spirit of the community, a symbol of hope and renewal. The hare, often associated with new beginnings and overcoming challenges, embodies the positive energy that thrives within Harehills.

East Street Arts, the organization behind this inspiring artwork, has been a driving force in bringing creativity and cultural vibrancy to Leeds for over 30 years. They’ve transformed neglected spaces into thriving arts hubs, supported local artists, and engaged communities through a variety of creative projects.

Here are a few examples of East Street Arts’ impact on Leeds:

One of their most impactful projects is “A City Less Grey,” an initiative aimed at injecting color and creativity into the streets of Leeds. Through this project, East Street Arts has facilitated the creation of stunning murals and public art installations throughout the city center and beyond.

From the UK’s tallest piece of street art, “Athena Rising” by NOMAD Clan, which adorns the Platform building near Leeds Station, to vibrant murals that enliven historic buildings and hidden alleyways, “A City Less Grey” has transformed Leeds into a canvas for artistic expression. This project not only beautifies the city but also supports local artists and fosters a sense of community pride.

Slideshow borrowed from the amazing page on East Streets Art here, please do check out their site, there’s such amazing art on there, and a City Less Grey I’d love to see make a comeback, lets paint the city!.

The “Hare of Harehills” is a testament to East Street Arts’ commitment to community engagement and their belief in the power of art to inspire and transform. It’s a reminder that creativity can flourish even in the most unexpected places, and that art can play a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging and pride.

So next time you’re in Harehills, be sure to pay a visit to the “Hare of Harehills” and appreciate this symbol of community spirit and artistic expression. And if you’re interested in exploring more of Leeds’ vibrant art scene, check out East Street Arts and their impressive range of programs and initiatives.