Flock of colourful birds appears in Leeds for photographer's fundraising street art project

Photographer Angus Mcdonald hopes to add a touch of fun and vibrancy to the city centre during these challenging times through his 'Punk Ass Poultry' exhibition - which features a flock of giant punk birds on 100 bilboards and poster drums sites across Leeds.

The exhibition also aims to raise much-needed funds for refugee charity Leeds Asylum Seekers' Support Network (LASSN).

Angus said: “I was due to exhibit at a local gallery this spring but Covid-19 soon put a stop to that, so I decided to bring my project outside instead.

"For such an upbeat city, the mood is understandably low right now, so these crazy-looking birds represent everything that Leeds needs at the moment – colour, humour and a celebration of pure individuality and anti-establishment attitude.

"The whole punk ethos grew out of challenging times, so it feels right to give these jubilant cocks and hens their first gig now.”

The Punk Ass Poultry exhibition can now be found on two giant billboards at Hyde Park corner, Swinegate in the city centre, Wellington Street, the Royal Park pub in Hyde Park and on over 100 drum sites across the city centre.

It features a gathering of the world’s finest fowl, from the Ayam Cemani from Indonesia, to the regal Russian Orloff.

Jon Beech, LASSN director, said: "Covid has left many refugees in Leeds frightened and even more isolated. We are helping them stay connected and hopeful.

“Angus' photos hold a mirror up to Leeds - a city known for its humour and attitude and quirky beauty.

"These photos of our feathered friends are a breath of fresh air in such bewildering times, with themes of inclusivity, culture and non-prejudice at their core.

"We’re thankful for this wonderfully creative project, and hope that together, we raise more money to support our local refugees and asylum seekers at such a critical time.”

Photo poster prints from the Punk Ass Poultry project are now available to buy via https://www.angusmcdonald.net/pap-raising-for-refugees.

Prices start at £25, with all profits going to LASSN. You can also donate direct to LASSN via https://lassn.org.uk/.

Follow @PunkAssPoultry on Instagram for more information.

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