The magic of art lies in its ability to create something beautiful even out of dolorous events.
Leonard Cohen was no stranger to exploring the dark corners of his soul, whether it was in his poetry or his music. Born and raised in Montreal, Cohen pursued his studies in McGill University before becoming a published writer and later blessing the world with his musical talents. In November 2016, after six decades of a successful career, his death devastated the hearts of millions.
When Montreal artist Kevin Ledo was asked to pay tribute to the legendary artist during Mural Festival’s 5th edition in June 2017, he grasped onto the opportunity. The massiveness of the mural was a first not only for the artist himself, but it is also the largest mural created by the festival. The artwork was received with positive feedback from the public, most of whom were happy to have the legend back in his hometown, at only few feet from his last house.
Watch CBC Art’s documentation of how Leonard Cohen was immortalized by Kevin Ledo on a 9-storey building’s wall.