A monumental sculpture commemorates the life of David Oluwale and celebrates the diversity of Leeds, while offering a message of healing and unity.
Against the backdrop of Leeds’ red-brick buildings, a vibrant and captivating public artwork has emerged, capturing the attention and imagination of locals and visitors alike. “Hibiscus Rising,” a 10-meter tall sculpture by renowned artist Yinka Shonibare, stands as a symbol of hope and healing in the heart of Leeds. Unveiled as part of the city’s year of culture, Leeds 2023, the artwork pays tribute to David Oluwale, a British-Nigerian man who tragically lost his life in 1969 due to racist persecution. Shonibare’s sculpture not only honors Oluwale’s memory but also celebrates the rich diversity of Leeds, a city that embraces people from 169 different nationalities.
A Painful Legacy and a Call for Justice
The commissioning of Hibiscus Rising stems from the tragic story of David Oluwale, a victim of racial violence and police brutality. Oluwale, a British-Nigerian man, was relentlessly hounded and beaten by racist police officers before tragically drowning in the River Aire while attempting to escape their persecution. The subsequent landmark case resulted in the imprisonment of the officers responsible for a series of assaults. However, the legacy of this shameful crime continues to haunt Leeds, as evidenced by the theft of a blue plaque dedicated to Oluwale just hours after its unveiling last year. The theft sparked a powerful response from the community, with citizens displaying images of the plaque throughout the city, highlighting the ongoing struggle for justice and remembrance.
Looking Forward with Beauty and Empathy
Yinka Shonibare, the artist behind Hibiscus Rising, sought to create a sculpture that would inspire healing and unity, rather than focusing solely on the circumstances of Oluwale’s tragic death. Drawing from his own childhood memories in Nigeria, Shonibare chose the hibiscus flower as the central motif for the artwork. This vibrant and exotic flower, adorned with batik fabric designs popular in West Africa, symbolizes beauty, love, empathy, and passion. Shonibare’s intention was to evoke happier times and create a memorial that would bring people together, rather than perpetuating sadness or division.
Leeds 2023: A Year of Cultural Celebration
Leeds 2023, the city’s year of culture, has provided a vibrant platform for artistic expression and celebration. Despite the disappointment of Leeds losing its bid to be the European Capital of Culture due to Brexit, the city has rallied and embraced its cultural richness. The past 12 months have been filled with a whirlwind of performances, exhibitions, and festivities, showcasing the city’s artistic prowess and diverse community. Hibiscus Rising stands as a powerful symbol within this cultural renaissance, capturing the spirit of Leeds and its commitment to inclusivity and creativity.
Overcoming Challenges and Creating Landmarks
While Leeds has made significant strides in becoming culturally vibrant and economically prosperous, the journey to bring Hibiscus Rising to fruition was not without its challenges. Funding proved to be a real struggle, with the public sculpture project facing the threat of cancellation when support was withdrawn. Dr. Emily Zobel Marshall, co-chair of the David Oluwale Memorial Association, believes that these struggles stem from a reluctance to confront and tell difficult stories. However, with the support of Leeds City Council, Leeds 2023, Art Fund, Arts Council England, and the Henry Moore Foundation, Hibiscus Rising was able to overcome these obstacles and become a landmark sculpture for the city.
Conclusion:
Hibiscus Rising stands tall as a symbol of healing, hope, and unity in Leeds. Through the vibrant and captivating artwork, Yinka Shonibare pays tribute to the life of David Oluwale, while celebrating the diversity and resilience of the city. As Leeds continues to embrace its cultural richness and confront its past, the sculpture serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance, justice, and the transformative power of art. Hibiscus Rising has become an iconic landmark, capturing the spirit of Leeds and its commitment to a brighter, more inclusive future.
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