International muralist Jeks, who created the piece on the gable end of 1198 Govan Road, said the work presents a bold and contemporary depiction of Barbour’s spirit, linking her legacy of protest and activism with the ongoing fight for justice and equality today.

Commissioned by SWG3’s Yardworks GRID in partnership with LHA, the mural celebrates five decades of the association providing social housing and supporting the Govan community. It also forms part of Glasgow’s 850th anniversary celebrations, spotlighting the city’s rich history of grassroots activism.

The mural, informed by community voices gathered by local organisations Protests and Suffragettes and Sunny G Radio, features a young woman symbolising a modern Mary Barbour, looking upward toward a brighter future, with a protest scene behind her. Subtle details such as an equals sign tattoo on her neck and a thistle motif symbolise “strength, equality, and Scottish identity”.

This is Yardworks GRID’s fifth large-scale gable end mural in Govan, contributing to a growing trail of public artworks that celebrate the area’s heritage. Its unveiling comes as Yardworks announce their partnership with Street Art Cities, reinforcing Govan’s place in Scotland’s contemporary cultural landscape.

Linthouse Housing Association chief executive Irene C McFarlane said: “Mary Barbour was an iconic figure not just in Glasgow but across the wider housing association movement. Her contribution cannot be underestimated as she bravely tackled housing injustice and stood firmly on the side of tenants.

“It is therefore highly appropriate that she should be honoured with this new mural as a reminder of her activism. It perfectly complements the Mary Barbour statue located at Govan Cross unveiled in 2018. Along with two other recently unveiled murals in our community, this latest mural is the perfect curtain raiser to our 50th anniversary celebrations.”

Artist Jeks said: “Painting this mural was an honour for me on many levels. Mary Barbour was a hero in her activism, organisation and mobilisation of women to protest for their civil rights. Although this mural is not a literal depiction of Mary, it represents her massive inspiration for all to stand up and speak out for what is right and important in your country and communities. Her strength and courage should always be remembered as a guiding light, and I hope this mural inspires young women, men and all to stand up and fight for what’s right.”