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The vibrant street art of Leeds is an important part of the landscape for many tourists. The colourful murals in the cityscape provide an interesting backdrop to commutes, coffee runs and shopping.
For James and Vicky Wall however, the works they create are more than mere visual ornaments. Art Around Every Corner is a new documentary that offers an insight into the story behind the painting. It explores the inspirations and creative process of the artists who transform the streets in Leeds into a gallery.
James Wall had the idea for this film while casually strolling through the centre of the city. “There’s a street near The Calls with so many murals – even though I’d seen them before, I hadn’t properly stopped to look at them,” He says. “That day, I took the time. I texted Vicky something like, ‘We’re so lucky to have all this – we literally have art around every corner.’ That was the spark.”
The project grew from that moment of inspiration into a feature length documentary. It features the bold and large-scale artists who have shaped Leeds’ visual identity. Anthony Burrill is part of the final lineup, which includes Ekaterina sheaf, Emma Hardaker Jamie Steward Jaydon Rowbottom and Jenny Beard. Each artist offers a unique view on their work, influences and relationship to Leeds.
Vicky Wall says that the selection of artists involved a mixture of instinct, research and connections with local communities. “Some names were obvious – like Anthony Burrill and Emma Hardaker, who have created some of the city’s most recognisable pieces,” She says “But others came through conversations, recommendations, and even putting a call-out on Instagram.”
It’s a mixture of well-known names and new talent united by their love for public spaces and their connections to Leeds.
The documentary is centered around the theme of universality, which refers to the common experiences and influences of artists from different disciplines. “We like to think we’re all completely unique in our creative journeys,” James Wall says “but the truth is, we have a lot in common – from childhood memories to the music that shaped us as teenagers.” The pair is keen to continue exploring this commonality in future projects.
James Wall and Vicky Wall are a creative duo who bring complementary talents to the filmmaking process. James has over 10 years of creative experience, and Vicky is a CBT-trained therapist. Together, they have a empathetic approach that is centered on the artist.
“Vicky’s ability to create a safe and inclusive environment is invaluable,” James Wall. “It helps people open up on camera and share their true selves, which is what makes the interviews so rich and personal.”
The documentary’s minimalist production style reflects the focus on creating an atmosphere of comfort. “We keep things small – minimal crew, minimal kit – which helps the artists relax,” says Vicky Wall. “We’re not trying to catch anyone off guard or hit them with tricky questions. It’s about giving them space to share their story in their own time.”
Slow, immersive storytelling by the couple is an intentional antidote for today’s content culture. “So much creative content gets squeezed into 60-second clips for social media, but some stories need breathing room,” James Wall. “We wanted to create something that people could return to, that might inspire them long after they’ve watched it.”
The Walls believe that Leeds’s creative scene is not appreciated and supported enough. Vicky Wall said: “Leeds is a city with so much potential but it has been culturally in decline.”
“That’s part of why we wanted to make this film – to celebrate the city’s talent and show people what’s happening right under their noses.”
It also explores the difficulties muralists have to face. From navigating the public’s perception, to the logistics of painting huge works in public places. It also highlights how public art can shape the identity of a community, create conversation and be accessible to all. “Not everyone feels comfortable walking into a gallery,” James Wall says “but public art is there for everyone – it turns the whole city into a creative space.”
The featured artists also share this sense of democratization. Some artists describe their art as visual storytelling that combines personal experiences with cultural commentary.
Both the featured artists and the larger creative community have responded positively to the documentary. Some of the artists featured were initially reluctant to appear on camera. However, they found it rewarding. Not only for the exposure but also for the chance to meet other creatives. “There’s something powerful about seeing your work – and your story – on a big screen, alongside other artists you respect,” James Wall.
The Walls hopes that the film inspires both creatives and those who are not artists. “We want it to reach people who don’t think of themselves as creative,” says Vicky Wall. “Maybe they’ll watch it and think, ‘I could give that a go.’ Creativity should be for everyone.”
Creative Stories is the production company of the Walls. They are looking forward to Art Around Every Corner. Two new projects are already being pre-produced – the first exploring creativity in different artistic disciplines, and the second tackling women’s healthcare through art and storytelling.
The Walls’ work is part of an overall mission to promote creativity, amplify voices that are underrepresented, and provide a place where stories can be given the attention and time they deserve. “Our mantra is simple,” James Wall. “We tell stories of creativity to spark your imagination.”
Art Around Every Corner captures the vibrant creative spirit and heart of Leeds, making it a place worth exploring.
