The rich working-class identity and maritime history of Leith is told through the vibrant colours of the Leith History Mural. It’s hard to miss, dominating North Junction Street, Leith’s strong sense of independent community, summed up by a collage of its greatest, most impactful memories. Painted in 1986, by Tim Chalk and Paul Grime, together with the community, this mural sits at the heart of Leith.
Looking up at the mural, I was first struck by its scales and diversity. From the Dockyard strikes to the Leith hospital gala, to the mourners of the Gretna rail disasters, this mural encompasses and represents the entire community of Leith. Swirling lines and dynamic figures create a circular motion to the composition of the mural, leading you through a story of community. Bright colours create a light atmosphere of fun and pride throughout the mural. The bustling nature of the busy streets and protests depicted, draws in the viewer, extending a sense of community towards them. Being so close to the figures as they look down towards you draws you into their community, to their lives.
Despite the animated features of the figures, they are still able to communicate more sombre themes of loss as well as a sense of energy and activism. Towards the top left corner, the mural commemorates the Gretna Rail disaster of 1915, which took the lives of many territorial soldiers from the Leith Battalion. The mural commemorates this loss and recognizes its importance to the entire community of Leith.
In 2020, a light show lit up the mural, to be appreciated again in its full glory, displaying its prevailing importance. The vibrant hues projected onto the piece made it hard to miss, restoring panels which were no longer visible.
The mural not only looks at the great history of Leith, but also towards its future. A couple sat at a wine bar predicts the gentrification which upheaved much of Leith’s working-class culture with the decline of its industrial economy. Upscale bars and restaurants, and a new tram route have altered the identity of Leith, which this mural hangs onto.
Regrettably, the mural has not well stood the test of time. With the colours faded and some panels desolated by the harsh Scottish weather, the future of the mural is questioned. Should it be restored to its former glory or should it be advanced to reflect the new memories and communities of Leith?
Photo by Spencer Siles for The Student