Peachzz' 'Roots' mural unveiled at MAPA Cultural Arts Centre

The wall art is the newest contribution to a Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture initiative called BD:Walls, in collaboration with Bradford Council.

Community leader, businessman, and musician Michael Pryce, better known as Mikey Roots, who died 22 years ago at the age of 39, is honoured in the new mural. Pictured is artist Peachzz (Image: Supplied) BD:Walls aims to transform the district's "blank walls" into "vibrant canvases," celebrating Bradford's history and identity.

The 'Roots' mural, created by street artist Peachzz, was developed in partnership with MAPA, which held a series of workshops earlier this year.

'Roots' evokes community unity, and reflects the diverse voices and shared experiences that define MAPA's collective identity.

It honours musician, community leader, and businessman Mikey Roots, who was known for his work across various community groups - including a Boy Scouts club with its own Rastafari-coloured necktie - and who inspired young people and bands.

The BD:Walls project will unveil further murals throughout 2025 (Image: Supplied)

Mr Roots died 22 years ago at the age of 39 from a brain haemorrhage, and friends and family members were present at a gathering for the new mural.

The artwork also features Newby Square flats; a vibrant scene from Peoples Day; and activities enjoyed at the arts centre including pool and arts and crafts.

A talent development programme for street artists, including advice on funding applications, is also being driven by BD:Walls (Image: Supplied)

Shanaz Gulzar, creative director of Bradford 2025, said: "Our BD:Walls project, unveiled earlier this year, celebrates both our contemporary identity and vibrant heritage.

"The project aims to turn the streets of Bradford District into galleries for our UK City of Culture year in 2025, and I’m delighted that MAPA is the next location to have a mural painted.

The MAPA mural, called 'Roots', features a nod to Newby Square flats (Image: Supplied) "MAPA is a pillar of the Bradford community; it has such a deep history in the city and it’s brilliant to see that celebrated in the mural."

Speakers, pool, arts, and crafts in the mural reference the activities people can enjoy at MAPA Cultural Arts Centre (Image: Supplied) Artist Peachzz added: "It's been so nice to work on this project with MAPA.

"There's been so many wonderful people that I have met throughout the process and I've enjoyed learning in depth what this mural means to the community, to MAPA, and what it represents - it has been really amazing."

Paul Bose, CEO of MAPA Community Centre, said: "'Roots’ is a welcome addition to MAPA that celebrates our vibrant history and is a message of unity."

The 'Roots' mural also references Peoples Day – a regular event that started in the eighties (Image: Supplied) The new mural can be seen at MAPA, 1 Coates St, Bradford, BD5 7DL.

Bradford 2025 unveiled the first BD:Walls mural in June - a painting by artist NeSpoon inspired by Bradford’s textile industry.

Further walls, artists, and mural designs will be revealed throughout 2025 as part of the BD:Walls initiative.

The initiative is also creating a talent development programme, designed to offer support to street artists.

The programme will include mentoring, support with funding applications, pitching advice, and a dedicated space to showcase work.