The Big Coo — Remembering Rebecca Lyes
Beneath the arches in Worcester, a new mural now stands as a vibrant and deeply personal tribute to the life and creativity of young artist Rebecca Lyes.
The mural was painted by family and friends in collaboration with Sweetart Murals and inspired by Rebecca’s original artwork The Big Coo, the piece celebrates an artist whose playful imagination, sharp observational eye and gentle humour left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
Rebecca was a talented illustrator and creative spirit who found meaning in everyday moments. Her work captured the details many people pass by unnoticed, transforming ordinary scenes into something full of warmth, wit and personality. There was a quiet brilliance to her art — thoughtful, funny and unmistakably her own.
This mural is based on Rebecca Lyes’ original artwork ‘The Big Coo’
Last October, Rebecca sadly passed away, leaving behind family, friends and a creative community searching for ways to honour not only the loss they felt, but the joy, kindness and inspiration she shared so freely throughout her life.
Rebecca was a local talented artist and illustrator with a clever, playful way of seeing the world.
Painted with the help of those closest to her, the mural is more than a memorial. It is a celebration of Rebecca’s life and the love that continues to surround her work and memory. It also carries a wider message — encouraging people to pause, notice the little things, find humour where they can, and check in with one another.
She noticed the small funny details in life and turned them into something truly memorable.
Because, as the mural gently reminds us, behind many smiles there can be struggles we do not always see.
Visitors are also encouraged to support Behind the Smile, a local charity dedicated to raising awareness around mental health and providing support to those who need it most.
There are plans to hold an exhibition ‘Made by Lyes‘ later this year, where you’ll be able to see more of Rebecca Lyes’ artwork. Full details of the exhibition will be announced soon.