O2 Academy Leeds gets vibrant artwork make-over in lockdown

This is just an interval - new look O2 Academy Leeds

The artwork was created by Leeds-based artist Eject as part of O2’s This Is Just An Interval campaign.

O2 has collaborated with home-grown talent across the UK to create artworks as a part of its ongoing commitment to support local venues

The Leeds venue has revealed a brand-new look, with artwork reminding passers-by of the good times they’ve enjoyed at the live music hotspot.

It comes as the city eagerly awaits the returning buzz of experiencing live music once again.

O2, in collaboration with Creative Debuts, put the project in the hands of Eject, a graphic designer, illustrator and graffiti artist from Leeds.

His work was heavily inspired by the instantly-recognisable typography of some iconic bands, all shot through with a bolt of neon colour to reflect the beating heart of the music scene in Leeds.

“The inspiration behind the creation of my This Is Just An Interval piece comes from my love of drawing band logos in my school days,” Eject said.

O2 Academy Leeds has revealed a brand-new look with artwork by local talent Eject

“Band logos and the rebelliousness that music can encourage have always been an inspiration to me and are pretty much the reason I chose to create art and design.

"Music and art go hand in hand and having the luxury of so many live venues in Leeds, I grew up kind of spoilt with new musicians and old ones coming through to play, especially here at the O2 Academy Leeds.”

Gareth Griffiths, Head of Sponsorship at O2, said: “We appreciate these continue to be extremely challenging circumstances for live music venues, still waiting on guidance as to when they can re-open their doors.

"As we gradually return to normality, it is so important we celebrate the O2 Academy Leeds, a venue at the very heart of its community, loved for the many memories that it has created. The nation has experienced an extended break without live music, but this is just an interval and it will be back.

O2 Academy Leeds celebrating graffiti art work new look ahead of eagerly awaited return of live music

"We wanted to show our appreciation by ensuring fans remember the good times until we’re all able to enjoy live music together again.”

O2 has been the proud sponsor of Academy Music Group venues since 2009, championing live music and helping fans get closer to the action via priority tickets, giving O2 customers access to tickets up to 48 hours in advance. For more information visit priority.o2.co.uk/tickets.