There’s a stunning new public artwork at the Tower Works development in Holbeck.
Artist Zoe Power has created a 300 square meter mural, A Common Thread, which incorporates cogs from factory machines and patterns from woollen weaves, nodding to Leeds’ industrial past and referencing the site’s previous use as a wool comb factory.
Amongst the cogs, clouds and patterns, a thread entwines two figures, representing connection and hope, merging the past with the present.
Zoe Power said:
“I wanted to merge the past and present, referencing the rich history of the site whilst also creating an artwork that felt modern and that leaves room for interpretation.
“When researching the local wool factories, I was amazed to see that a huge proportion of the workforce was female. We often associate industry, machinery and the economy with men, which does not reflect the true history of the textile industry here. I felt it was important to celebrate women’s role within the history of the site.”
Power’s design was chosen from a shortlist of four after an open call for submissions and is co-presented by The Tetley and Legal & General, who funded the development.
Tower Works, which features three listed Italianate chimneys, was originally built in the 1860s to manufacture steel pins for carding machines used in the textile industry. The new development includes 245 new private rented flats as well as public open spaces.
This post is based on a press release issued by The Tetley
Photo: Jules Lister
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