A mural created in Plymouth commemorates Bobbi-Anne McLeod, who tragically died. Initiative to bring light into a dark place.
Bobbi-Anne, 18, was taken on November 20, 2021. She waited at Brampton Road and Sheepstor Road, planning to take a bus to see her boyfriend. Cody Ackland attacked her and went to prison, receiving at least 31 years for murder.
Her death deeply impacted the city of Plymouth. Vigils and marches called for safer conditions for women. A commission launched to address violence against women, starting in January 2022 and making recommendations. Actions continue to happen now due to this.
Mike Vosper helps create murals citywide through his organization, Plymouth Artists Together (PAT). He specifically focused on a subway by the bus stop where Bobbi-Anne waited that night.
Vosper said the mural is very important. They carefully considered its proximity to the bus stop. He described the subway as dark and overgrown with peeling paint, stating that it looked awful and should be pristine.
Following this, Vosper contacted local councillors who provided funding for repairs. A young person helped clear the area by cutting back bushes and cleaning the wall. This prepared the wall as a blank canvas for the mural.
An artist added two uplifting quotes afterward. One wall quote is: “Not all storms disrupt your life,” and the other reads: “Some clear your path.” Bobbi’s mom chose Stitch from Lilo and Stitch, Bobbi’s favorite character, to also be painted there, and loved the mural’s final result.