Painting & Decorating Students Tackle Striking Football Mural

LEEDS, U.K. - March 6, 2025 - PRLog -- An all-female group of City & Guilds Level 1 Painting & Decorating Diploma students spent two weeks working with the artist, whose artwork can be seen around the world, completing the outdoor project in extremely challenging conditions.

Denis Metcalf, Leeds College of Building Enrichment Manager, explained, "We've had a brilliant relationship with GOALS for over 15 years and regularly use their soccer facilities for student enrichment and fitness. Steve, the GOALS Facilities Manager, made the initial suggestion of creating a noticeable piece of artwork that would transforming a blank wall in the shooting area. We always look out for work-based experiences for our students, so were happy to assist."

Given the creative element of the project, Denis reached out to Leeds-born artist Nicolas Dixon, after seeing his commissions at various sites, including Leeds Kirkgate Market, Trinity Shopping Centre, LUFC's Elland Road, and the world famous Bielsa the Redeemer mural in Wortley. Nicolas was delighted to support the initiative and pass on his knowledge to the students, who all volunteered their time to help.

Together, the group collaborated on the large-scale mural outside the GOALS clubhouse for over two weeks. The design was inspired by themes of football, Leeds cityscape, and Nicolas's style of art using the unconscious mind.

Gaining real-life work experience through employer partnerships is a vital part of the training at Leeds College of Building. Previous Painting & Decorating projects have included renovating a scout hut, painting Herd Farm activity centre offices, and working at Headingley Cricket Club.

Artist Nicolas Dixon added, "The dedication that the students showed was very impressive and admirable. The conditions were pretty much the coldest I've painted in for the 15 years I've been an artist. That takes a lot of character to turn up and work in those challenging conditions, so hats off to them.

A spokesperson at GOALS concluded, "We are thrilled with how the kick wall is now looking [...] Because of this piece, we can now incorporate the Kick Wall into our kids' parties as we are immensely proud of what has been produced. All the students that took part in this project should be proud of the work they have done to make this stunning piece of art."

To learn more about Painting & Decorating courses or the sport and enrichment opportunities at Leeds College of Building, visit the next Open Day on Saturday 22^nd March, North Street & South Bank Campuses, 10am – 1pm. Register to attend at: www.lcb.ac.uk/open-events