Carl Cox Expresses Gratitude for Mural Tribute
World-renowned DJ Carl Cox described feeling "honoured" and "humbled" by a newly painted mural created in anticipation of his upcoming performance alongside the iconic dance group The Prodigy.
Cox, who has garnered international acclaim over his decades-long career in electronic dance music, was photographed walking beside the mural in Cardiff, which was painted by Welsh artist Steve Jenkins.
Sharing a video on Instagram, Cox admired the artwork, commenting on the accuracy of his depiction.
"It's a pretty good likeness," he said. "They've done a really good job. It's incredible to see it."
Performance at Cardiff's Utilita Arena
On Sunday evening, Cox delivered a two-hour DJ set at Cardiff's Utilita Arena, preceding The Prodigy's performance. The Prodigy, known for their global success during the 1990s as one of the leading dance acts, reunited with Cox for this event.
While walking alongside the mural, Cox reflected on the significance of the tribute.
"Someone's actually taken the time out to actually do that in the honour of myself and The Prodigy," he said, gesturing to the large mural featuring his portrait, complete with his signature sunglasses.
The mural includes the phrase "oh yes, oh yes" to the left, a catchphrase commonly associated with Cox's sets, while the right side displays "The Prodigy" in bright yellow lettering.
Artist Steve Jenkins' Inspiration and Process
Steve Jenkins, a native of Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, expressed his long-standing admiration for both Carl Cox and The Prodigy.
Inspired by the joint tour, Jenkins chose the boardwalk near the Principality Stadium in Cardiff as the ideal location for the mural.
He traveled from his hometown early one morning last week and completed the mural in a single day.
Having previously painted a mural at the same site, Jenkins was familiar with the wall's dimensions.
He initially created a digital mock-up of the portrait before transferring it onto the wall, focusing closely on capturing intricate details.
During the painting process, Jenkins used an iPad as a guide to ensure precision.
Artist's Reaction and Future of the Mural
Although Jenkins narrowly missed the opportunity to meet Cox in person during the mural's unveiling, he attended the weekend's concert, which he described as "outstanding."
He shared his feelings about Cox's response to the mural.
"But just seeing the video that he made was really sort of heartwarming," Jenkins said. "Seeing that he appreciated it and had photos in front of it, that was enough for me, but it would have been lovely to meet him."
Jenkins hopes the mural has fostered a positive connection between Cox and the city of Cardiff.
"I hope it's made him feel a really nice, warm connection to Cardiff," he added.
He anticipates that the mural will be painted over by other artists within approximately a month, advising those interested to capture photos promptly.
"So people need to snap it quick if they want a photo," he said, laughing.
