New Liverpool mural honours ‘life-saving hero’

A striking new mural has been unveiled in north Liverpool celebrating the legacy of a unique life-saving hero.

James Clarke – a pioneering figure who dedicated his life to saving others, teaching water safety, and building community in the city he made his home – has now been immortalised in the city’s newest piece of public art.

Commissioned as part of ongoing efforts to honour the unsung heroes who have shaped Liverpool’s story, the mural is the latest example of how the city is recognising its diverse past and celebrating the contributions of migrant communities.

James Clarke, born in 1886 in what is now Guyana, arrived in Liverpool as a teenager and quickly became a beloved local figure. 

From saving children from drowning in the docks and canals to teaching hundreds to swim at Wavertree Swimming Club, James became a symbol of selflessness and solidarity in Liverpool.

His bravery earned him multiple medals and a certificate from the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society, and his name lives on in Clarke Street, making him the first Black man in Liverpool to receive such a civic honour.

A plaque at Wavertree Aquatics Centre also commemorates his lifelong dedication to water safety, and his medals and certificate are on public display at the Museum of Liverpool.

The mural, located in Athol Village, in the city’s Kirkdale area, was painted by acclaimed local artist John Culshaw and commissioned by Liverpool-based charity Mandela8 in partnership with Riverside Foundation.

Liverpool City Council is working alongside grassroots organisations to ensure the contributions of people from migrant and minority backgrounds are acknowledged, celebrated, and built into the story of the city’s future.

The mural adds to a growing number of public artworks and initiatives that are reclaiming space for overlooked voices and lived experiences. Recent examples include the Flower Streets murals in Kirkdale – a vibrant series of large-scale floral paintings created with local residents – and the striking Liverpool Waterfront mural, which celebrates local legends from music, art and sport along a 40-metre stretch of the city’s iconic waterfront.

Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene, said:

“James Clarke’s story is one of courage, compassion and community. Liverpool has long been a city shaped by migration, and James embodies the best of that tradition — someone who gave back and lifted others.

“This mural is a tribute to James Clarke, and also a statement on the kind of city we are and aspire to be: inclusive, welcoming, and proud of all who call Liverpool home.”

Sonia Bassey MBE, Chair of Mandela8, said:

“James Clarke was a true local hero, saving many people from drowning in the Mersey and teaching so many others to swim so they could save themselves.

“As someone who is synonymous with courage and really embracing unity in his support of his local community, we felt James was the perfect subject for this mural in Athol Village”

The family of James Clarke said: said:

“We are truly honoured and deeply grateful to see a mural created in his memory. His story is one of strength and perseverance. Despite facing racism and physical abuse, he never let those struggles define him. 

“In today’s world, where immigration is often spoken about negatively, his life shows the true impact of those who come here, work hard, and dedicate themselves to helping others. His journey is a powerful reminder that no matter the obstacles, determination and kindness can make a real difference.”

Mural artist, John Culshaw said:

“James Clarke was a new name to me when this project arose. I started researching him and found out all the amazing things he did in his life; so much legacy to leave behind, for his family to look back upon and for others to learn about. 

“This truly was a special project to be involved in, so I would like to thank Mandela8, Riverside and of course the Clarke family for allowing me to be part of it.”

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