Decision details

Hibiscus Rising (working title) is a new landmark public art commission for Leeds by internationally renowned artist Yinka Shonibare, designed to commemorate the life of David Oluwale and to provide representation and aspiration to the community he came from.  A decision is required to secure the proposed sculpture through front-funding, so that the project can proceed whilst fundraising continues in parallel led by Leeds Culture Trust.

A review and public consultation into statues in Leeds took place in July and August 2020, the recommendations from which were discussed and agreed at Executive Board on 21 October 2020. One recommendation from that review is to “commission works of art that commemorate the varied contributions of the diverse citizens of Leeds.” This sculpture will directly support the delivery of that recommendation and will be unveiled as part of the LEEDS 2023 year of culture.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which provided information on the collaborative work being undertaken to establish a new landmark public art commission for Leeds designed to commemorate the life of David Oluwale and to also provide representation and aspiration to the community he came from. The report sought approval regarding related expenditure, and also sought authority to enter into an agreement with Leeds Culture Trust to set out the respective obligations between the parties with regard to delivering the project.

Responding to Members’ enquiries, assurance was provided on the actions which were being taken to ensure that the Council was fully supporting Leeds 2023’s fundraising strategy for the initiative and that Board Members would receive regular updates as appropriate in relation to this project and its financial position. In addition, it was noted that the £1.83m would be included within the overall fundraising aspirations of Leeds 2023 in the delivery of the year of culture, and during the year this project would be one of signature events.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to Leeds City Council front funding the cost of the project, as detailed within the submitted report, up to £1.83m, to be held against the Capital Programme contingency reserve, with the amount being held against the reserve being reduced as the fundraising progresses;

(b)  That the authority required to enter into an agreement with Leeds Culture Trust in order to set out the respective obligations between the parties with regard to delivering the project, be approved;

(c)  That Board Members receive regular updates, as appropriate, in relation to this project and its financial position.

Consultation has taken place with the relevant Executive Members, ward members and the David Oluwale Memorial Association to ensure that proposal is in line with their ambitions for the project.

Executive Member for Economy, Culture and Education

Ward Members

David Oluwale Memorial Association