Shawn Sharpe's new mural brings Edith Rigby's pioneering spirit to life in Preston city centre
A bold new splash of colour has appeared in Preston’s Harris Quarter, where local artist Shawn Sharpe has been hard at work on his latest large-scale mural, Preston Pioneers.
The artwork, commissioned by Preston City Council, pays tribute to the city’s past, present and future through a striking modern reimagining of suffragette Edith Rigby.
Rather than opting for a literal portrait, Sharpe captures Rigby’s pioneering spirit through a contemporary figure at the centre of the piece.
Subtle cues - an amber necklace, short hair - offer gentle nods to Rigby’s identity while the artwork’s real focus is her energy, determination and boldness.
The mural’s backdrop is rich with symbolism, drawing on Preston’s landscape and the green, white and purple colours of the suffrage movement.
The Guild Wheel appears as a reference to Rigby, believed to be the first woman in Preston to ride a bicycle.
Elements of local nature and hidden Easter eggs hint at her rebellious streak, rewarding those who take a closer look.
After weeks spent bringing the mural to life, Sharpe said: “I’d like to thank Preston City Council for bringing me on board.
“With all the exciting developments in the Harris Quarter, it’s fantastic to contribute to the city’s creative future.
“The mural was never intended as an exact likeness - it’s about celebrating a pioneering mindset and sparking conversation. Action, not words.”
Rigby remains one of Preston’s most remarkable historic figures - a woman who defied Edwardian expectations to champion women’s rights, particularly for working-class women in Lancashire’s factories.
Fiercely committed to equality, she was unafraid to take drastic action to make her voice heard.
Though her methods were sometimes controversial, her bravery and conviction continue to command admiration.
Councillor Martyn Rawlinson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Resources at Preston City Council, said: “This stunning mural is a powerful celebration of Preston’s heritage and ambition.
“It reflects the creativity and resilience that define our city and honours the trailblazers of female equality and who shaped its future.
“We’re proud to support public art that inspires conversation and brings our community together.”