Leeds’ national heart charity Heart Research UK has unveiled a brand new art installation produced with famed local artist Nicolas Dixon – creator of the iconic ‘Bielsa the Redeemer’ mural – to raise awareness of the charity’s work across Yorkshire.
The artwork is on display at Chow Down, an outdoor food and drink venue off Water Lane in Holbeck, and was kindly supported by CEG and New Citizens.
Titled ‘4s a crowd’, the piece, which is split over 4 large boards, features Nicolas’ distinctive style of swirling shapes and patterns, with elements of Heart Research UK’s logo blended in.
The artwork was originally created to raise awareness of the charity’s anonymous heART project, an online charity auction which sees almost 500 pieces of unique postcard-sized pieces of art from huge names from the worlds of art and entertainment auctioned on eBay.
First launched in 2018, the project has raised over £130,000 and sold almost 1500 pieces of artwork.
However, due to coronavirus restrictions, the grand unveiling was delayed. Now, Heart Research UK are proud to unveil the artwork, which will be in place at Chow Down for the coming months, to raise awareness of the life-saving work the charity does in Yorkshire and beyond. Nicolas Dixon said:
“After taking part in the amazing anonymous heART auction alongside other international artists and celebrities last year, I was humbled to be asked to represent Heart Research UK and create this unique piece of art to celebrate and raise awareness of the charity.
“I am excited and looking forward to seeing it installed in its new home which has kindly been provided at the Chow Down site at Temple Arches by CEG and New Citizens, which is the perfect space to enjoy great food, music and art in these difficult times.”
Kate Bratt-Farrar, Chief Executive of Heart Research UK, said:
“The piece that Nicolas has created really needs to be seen to be believed, and we are over the moon that we have been able to work with him to create such a stunning way to raise awareness of our work.
“Yorkshire and Humber has the highest death rate from coronary heart disease in England. Heart Research UK has been working for over 50 years to try and change this, by investing in pioneering research.
“We’re very grateful for the support from CEG and New Citizens in making this happen, and want to say a special thank you to Nicolas for creating this wonderful piece.”
Matt Long, Director of New Citizens, said:
“I’m very proud that Chow Down is able to host this amazing piece of work from a good friend – especially since it will be raising awareness for an incredible charity.
“We’re all very thankful that both Heart Research UK and Nicolas have chosen Chow Down as the artwork’s home for the summer.”
The artwork can be viewed at Chow Down, Temple Arches in Leeds. Due to current restrictions, the venue is operating table service only, so booking is essential: chowdownevents.co.uk
To find out more about how Heart Research UK is using art to save hearts across Yorkshire, please visit heartresearch.org.uk/leeds-art
This post is based on a press release issued by Heart Research UK
