'It's provocative and humorous' - lockdown graffiti appears on Leith Walk

Councillors react to new graffiti spotted in Leith.

New graffiti has emerged at the bottom of Leith Walk in Edinburgh with a poignant message.

The work, done by artist Rebel Bear whose art appears in other parts of the country including Glasgow, shows animals protesting against lifting lockdown measures.

The different species painted, including a bear, a rhino, a tiger and a monkey, are holding signs saying: “Long live the lockdown”, “bats rule” and “keep humans locked up.”

Art work completed by Rebel Bear just off Leith Walk

The painting comes after some reports during lockdown reveal that some wildlife has benefited from humans being in hiding during the pandemic.

Green councillor for Leith Walk Susan Rae reacted to the piece which is located on the opposite side of the road to Stead’s Place.

She said: “‘I love the Rebel Bear’s work and am delighted to see this piece appear on Leith Walk. Like much of the Glasgow work that has appeared during the pandemic, this mural is provocative and humorous.

The artwork completed by Rebel Bear can be found just off the bottom of Leith Walk

“During lockdown, we have all watched as the world began to heal itself, sometimes, as with the canals in Venice, at speed.

“Here we have animals protesting that their habitats should stay safe.

“Our environment is also theirs. We need to come out of the pandemic and make our planet the priority.”

SNP councillor for Leith Walk Lewis Ritchie said: “While I would never condone graffiti, this satirical work of art is skillfully done and seems a good fit for Leith's edgy art scene. I'd rather see it on the inside of a gallery than the outside of a building, but credit to the artist for their work"