The first part of a series of stunning hand-painted murals have started to appear in Manchester.
The community in Levenshulme will benefit from the paintings which have designed by local artist Richard Preston.
Commissioned by Manchester City Council, and supported by residents, the murals aim to create a sense of pride in the area and brighten up the environment.
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The first mural, featuring a vibrant kingfisher, was recently unveiled as the first part of the council's initiative and forms part of the wider Levenshulme Street Art Trail that is due to be completed later this year.
Richard moved from Birmingham to Levenshulme four years ago and hopes the project will promote well-being, encourage community involvement in art, and foster appreciation for the area's diverse and beautiful nature.
"When I first moved to Manchester I wanted to make a difference in the community by brightening up certain areas. I did a few paintings independently and realised how much it changed the atmosphere of the environment and the people who lived there," the 37-year-old artist said.
Residents are also being encouraged to visit the murals and look after the wildlife hotspots in the area, including Highfield Park, The Secret Lake and other biodiverse places in Levenshulme.
Richard, who has been an artist for more than 20 years, added: "Nature has always been important to me and now I have the opportunity to show off beautiful nature spots. I spent six months taking photos of birds in local re-wilding areas in order to put QR codes on the murals to promote and educate the public on local nature hotspots and the species that live there.
"It's not about me - it's about teaching people about nature, creating a nicer environment and bringing community atmosphere and conversations together. I'm just trying to use my skills to benefit others and that's such a vital quality of being an artist."
In addition to this, the council hope that residents will see the murals and get involved with art, encouraging them to talk to their neighbours, explore the local area and take part in the Levenshulme Art Trail.
"The council, especially Mark O'Pray, have been amazing. They have helped to take this to the next level and really do believe it's helping the community and promoting people to go outside and explore."
Manchester City Council’s Neighbourhood team and the local community are currently collaborating to create wider mural designs that represent the heart and soul of the area.
Councillor Lee Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods at Manchester City Council, said:
“The unveiling of today’s artwork is a big moment for the community. Not only does this mural look great, but it has also been created by the local community and with the community. It is a great demonstration of what our local communities can do and adds some vibrancy to this area.
“I can't wait to see the rest of the murals and hope Mancunians from all over go to see the art work!”
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