In a momentous unveiling, Leeds witnessed the grand unveiling of ‘Hibiscus Rising,’ a striking 10-meter-tall sculpture by internationally acclaimed artist Yinka Shonibare CBE RA. This awe-inspiring public artwork is a poignant tribute to the life of David Oluwale, a British Nigerian and former Leeds resident whose personal story inspired local people to create a lasting legacy to mark his life.
The sculpture, inspired by the hibiscus flower, a symbol ubiquitous in Nigeria, stands as a beacon of hope and reconciliation. Its unveiling is a pivotal moment in the Year of Culture program for LEEDS 2023, marking Shonibare’s first permanent public commission in the North of England. It stands in Aire Park on the former Tetley’s Brewery site in Hunslet.
The legacy of David Oluwale, whose tragic demise in the River Aire in 1969 sparked a national scandal, is now immortalized through this powerful sculpture. Co-commissioned by LEEDS 2023 and the David Oluwale Memorial Association (DOMA), ‘Hibiscus Rising’ not only honours Oluwale’s memory but also stands as a symbol of unity, highlighting Leeds’ journey from a less tolerant past to an inclusive present.
Similar to Shonibare, Oluwale shared a childhood in Lagos, Nigeria, before making Leeds his home in 1949. Homelessness, mental health struggles, and racism marred Oluwale’s life, but his experiences became a catalyst for protest, reflection, and reform in Leeds and beyond.
Shonibare’s sculpture drew inspiration from the hibiscus flower, rooted in Nigerian culture, and complemented it with African-inspired batik patterns, exploring themes of cultural and national identity while drawing from Indonesian influences.
Strategically located in the heart of Leeds’ South Bank regeneration area, near the river where Oluwale tragically lost his life, ‘Hibiscus Rising’ stands alongside the new David Oluwale Bridge and a blue plaque dedicated to his memory on Leeds Bridge.
Yinka Shonibare, reflecting on the sculpture, expressed his desire for ‘Hibiscus Rising’ to be a space for remembrance and community unity.
“I wanted Hibiscus Rising to be a place where people could remember David Oluwale, but also to unite the community of Leeds and bring people together. Seeing it today, I am incredibly happy with how it looks and hope that it’s enjoyed by communities in Leeds now and for years to come.” Yinka Shonibare said:
The DOMA flagship project, a sculpture created by the internationally acclaimed artist, aims to be cherished by Leeds’ communities for years to come. DOMA has been actively promoting equality, diversity, and racial harmony in Leeds, utilizing art and events to bring about positive change.
Yinka Shonibare CBE RA, born in London in 1962 and later moving to Lagos, Nigeria, has become a prominent figure in the art world. His interdisciplinary practice delves into cultural identity, colonialism, and post-colonialism within the global context of globalization.
‘Hibiscus Rising’ not only stands as a remarkable artistic achievement but also as a symbol of Leeds’ commitment to remembering the past, fostering unity, and embracing a future of inclusivity and hope.
In her expression of gratitude, Kully Thiarai, Creative Director and CEO of LEEDS 2023, commends Yinka Shonibare for creating the remarkable legacy of ‘Hibiscus Rising’ during the Year of Culture. Celebrating the realization of their dream for a sculpture that reflects the cultural diversity of Leeds, Dr. Emily Zobel Marshall, co-chair of DOMA, said:
“Hibiscus Rising is the first sculpture in this city that reflects the cultural diversity of our people. After years of effort, we at DOMA are so incredibly proud to see our dream as a small anti-racist charity come to fruition. Leeds has faced the tragic story of David Oluwale head on, refused to forget him and the terrible prejudices of the past and made a commitment to move forward together in unity. Yinka Shonibare’s Hibiscus Rising epitomises all of this; it uplifts us, like a flower rising out of concrete, towards a more hopeful future.”
Leeds City Council, following a public consultation in 2020, supported the realization of the sculpture as a lasting tribute to David Oluwale and a symbol of inclusion and diversity. Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, hails the unveiling as a proud moment for the city, emphasizing the sculpture’s role in representing Leeds’ culture and values. The collaboration between the David Oluwale Memorial Association, LEEDS 2023, and Leeds City Council, with support from various entities, has resulted in the largest permanent sculpture in the UK by Yinka Shonibare.
Jenny Waldman, Director of Art Fund, also expressed delight in supporting Leeds City Council and LEEDS 2023, noting that the monumental sculpture by Yinka Shonibare raises awareness of and celebrates the life of David Oluwale. The Art Happens crowdfunding platform has made ‘Hibiscus Rising’ a lasting addition to the city’s landscape. A free activity day, including an in-conversation talk with Yinka Shonibare, family and zine-making workshops, a walking tour, live music, and poetry open mic sessions, accompanied the launch.
The fabrication of Hibiscus Rising was also supported by a grant from Henry Moore Foundation Grants.
