Ringo Starr Mural, Liverpool

A Tribute to a Liverpool Legend

The Ringo Starr Mural stands proudly on the side of the former Empress Pub at 93 High Park Street in Liverpool's Toxteth district, just a stone's throw from where Richard Starkey—better known as Ringo Starr—was born and raised. This mural is a heartfelt homage to Starr, the Beatles’ iconic drummer, capturing his spirit and musical legacy. The location is especially meaningful as the Empress Pub itself appears on the cover of Ringo’s debut solo album, "Sentimental Journey," creating a poignant connection between the artwork and his early life.

Artistic Vision and Creation

Liverpool artist John Culshaw completed this large-scale mural in March 2022. Culshaw chose a candid, less familiar image of Ringo Starr as the centerpiece, surrounded by vibrant, psychedelic motifs inspired by the Beatles’ "Yellow Submarine" era. The mural extends across the building, featuring two hands forming a heart and other colorful elements that evoke the band’s creative energy. The project was commissioned by Joe McCarthy, the building owner, who envisioned a tribute focused specifically on Ringo due to the area's strong association with him.

Location and Cultural Context

Situated in the Dingle area of Liverpool, the mural is part of a broader Beatles-themed cultural landscape. The Empress Pub is near Admiral Grove, where Ringo lived from the age of five, and close to his childhood home. This mural adds to Liverpool’s rich tradition of celebrating its musical icons through public art and is now a notable stop on Beatles heritage tours, attracting both locals and international visitors fascinated by the city’s musical history.

Community and Visitor Engagement

Since its completion, the mural has garnered attention and admiration from Beatles fans worldwide. Ringo Starr himself shared images of the mural on his social media, highlighting its significance. The artist, John Culshaw, has received messages from notable figures, including Paul McCartney’s sister, and enjoys recognition from tourists who seek out the mural as a photo opportunity. The mural has helped raise Culshaw’s profile as an artist and contributes to the ongoing cultural vitality of Liverpool’s Toxteth neighborhood.

The Empress Pub and Future Developments

The former Empress Pub, once a local gathering spot, is being transformed into a Beatles-themed hotel, with Culshaw commissioned to create additional artwork inside. This development promises to further enhance the site’s cultural importance, linking the mural with a broader immersive Beatles experience. The mural’s presence on the building’s exterior serves as an inviting gateway to this evolving tribute to Liverpool’s musical heritage.

Artistic Significance Within Liverpool’s Urban Landscape

The mural exemplifies Liverpool’s vibrant street art scene and its commitment to preserving and celebrating its musical history through public art. It stands as a colorful, dynamic landmark within the urban fabric, blending historic reverence with contemporary artistic expression. The mural’s scale and detail make it a striking visual icon, reflecting both the legacy of Ringo Starr and the enduring influence of the Beatles on Liverpool’s identity.