Leeds bear hunt
Betty the bear
Client: Leeds Bear Hunt (part of Leed’s Children’s Hospital Charity in the UK)
The brief
Over 50 artists were commissioned to paint life-sized bears as part of the Leeds Bear Hunt. The event placed the bears across the city of Leeds and later auctioned off the artworks, donating the proceeds to the Leeds Children’s Hospital.
My approach involved mindful painting, beginning with drawing from life in the Leeds Alhambra garden before creating a design. To minimize environmental impact, I used paint sourced from Seagulls in Leeds, where paint is saved for re-use. I then live-painted the bear in the Merrion Centre, a large shopping center in the heart of Leeds, with hundreds of passers-by watching the process and offering encouragement over the 5 days she was there.
What the client said
★★★★★
Martha created an amazing bear… One of 35 giant bears and 51 bear cubs which formed the Leeds Bear Hunt. A project run by Leeds Hospitals Charity raising money for Leeds Children’s hospital. Martha was a joy to work with and the bear was adored by everyone.
-Cheryl, Leeds Bear Hunt
Have a wall in mind?
I design and hand-paint custom murals for homes, businesses, schools and creative spaces throughout New York City and beyond. Get in touch to tell me about your space and I'll help you explore what's possible.
Explore similar murals
