Urban farm’s ‘heron of hope’ mural
SET UP to bring a “taste of the country” to within the bounds of Leeds’s city limits, Meanwood Valley Urban Farm has grown to become a much-loved family attraction.
Now the charity, with a striking heron mural commissioned to mark its 40th anniversary, reflects on that history as it looks to its future and to build on ambitions.
The new 26ft (eight metres) mural, entitled Heron, is intended to mark a new chapter for the farm, as it expands its work to educate and inform people about conservation and climate change.
The farm has over time become almost a “second home” to the hundreds of young people and those with learning disabilities who are at the heart of its education programmes, said Adam Ogilvie, chief executive.
He said: “The mural is very much about saying thank you – to all our visitors and supporters and staff over the years who have helped keep the farm going for 40 years. The striking image of a heron usually symbolises tranquillity, bringing joy to people. We very much are about peace and tranquillity. The mural is a really good symbol of hope for the future.”
Meanwood Valley Urban Farm first opened as a charity in 1980 with just a £5,000 donation from Leeds City Council and the help of volunteers operating out of two caravans.
Over the years, it has grown into a 26-acre site with extensive barns and grounds for animals including alpacas, goats, sheep, pigs and cows.
There’s a cafe; an ecofriendly EpiCentre with exhibition space, classrooms and shop, while its market garden supplies fresh vegetables and fruit to local people, cafes and restaurants.
The urban farm officially turned 40 in
2020 but was unable to celebrate because of lockdowns – instead the charity almost faced closure as income drained away.
It was an incredible campaign, and a fundraising appeal that raised £25,000, that ensured its survival and meant it was able to open doors once again last July.
Now, unveiled for the busy summer season, the large-scale artwork has been painted on the side of a farmhouse near Meanwood Beck by street artist Ralph Replete. Co-ordinated and funded by Leeds-based property investor Rushbond plc, a long-term supporter, and Leeds Inspired, it is intended as a beacon of hope for the future.
Mr Ogilvie said: “It’s immensely striking, we do sometimes see heron in this spot.
“It is something that makes you feel calm, and at ease, which is what we are all about.
“The mural reflects how far the farm has come over the last 40 years and offers us a moment to pause and look to the big plans we have for its future.
“The key thing is that we reach more people who might not otherwise be able to experience the great outdoors. That’s why we were set up as a charity 40 years ago.”
We very much are about peace and tranquillity. Adam Ogilvie, chief executive of Meanwood Valley Urban Farm.