New Harris Quarter mural celebrates Preston poet Phoebe Hesketh's legacy
A new mural inspired by one of Preston’s most celebrated writers has brought a fresh splash of colour to the Harris Quarter.
Titled My pocket’s full of sky, the artwork can be found beside Animate and Preston Markets.
It was created by artist Pizza Boy, who battled sun, rain and even snow to complete the piece after being invited by Shawn Sharpe.
The title comes from Truant, a 1939 poem by Preston-born poet Phoebe Hesketh.
Reflecting on wonder, freedom and joy in life’s small moments, the poem has been reimagined as a bold, contemporary artwork rooted in the city’s story.
Preston City Council supported the project as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the Harris Quarter through public art.
The mural joins a growing collection across the city centre, including works in Preston Markets and near Arc Cinema, promoted as part of the “Preston City Mural Tour”.
Hesketh, born in Preston in 1909, published 16 poetry collections and four prose works during her lifetime and later became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature.
Often referred to as the “Lancashire poet”, her writing evolved from nature-inspired early works to later reflections on loss and change. She died in 2005, aged 96.
The new mural offers a vivid tribute to her legacy, connecting Preston’s literary heritage with its modern creative scene.