A sunny afternoon just off Tib Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter was the location of today’s very special event. A large crowd had gathered outside the Wheatsheaf pub for the grand unveiling of the Andy Rourke Mural, a project that has been in the works for a while and has just this minute been completed, the paint is still wet!
Legendary Manchester graffiti artist Akse is still working on a special QR code (viewers can can to donate to the very worthy cause), and is hidden behind his face mask as he adds the final touches to this spectacular piece. Mike Joyce, former bandmate of Rourke and of course the drummer from the Smiths appears from around the corner to rapturous applause as the event officially begins.
Joyce, along with the Charity Pancreatic Cancer Action have teamed up and collated a talented team to make this happen, first organising a fundraiser, and then getting Akse onboard, (also famed for his beautiful piece of art, now on the side of The Star and Garter of Ian Curtis).
Mike Joyce speaking about the project said: “Thanks to this Crowdfunder, fans of Andy and The Smiths can contribute to a permanent memorial in his and the band’s hometown of Manchester, but also increase awareness of this debilitating disease and raise money for the charity Pancreatic Cancer Action.”
He adds: “The mural will not only serve as a permanent tribute to Andy’s legacy as a brilliant musician but also as a memory of the funniest, sweetest lad I had the pleasure of knowing. Many thanks, Mike.”
Joyce addressed the crowd and also introduced the photographer (Nalinee Darmrong) who’s work has now been made a permanent fixture in one of the musical hotspots of the city, and it is heartwarming that young bands on their way to play the surrounding iconic grassroots venues will see this stalwart of the industry looking down on them, even at night as the piece has had spotlights fitted.
The project is worth a visit, and the Wheatsheaf is a great traditional pub with the friendliest of bar staff, certainly an excuse for a pint after you have admired the work. Well done to Mike and team for adding such a beautiful tribute to one of Manchester’s finest.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS PROJECT CHECK OUT THE CHARITY’S OFFICIAL SITE HERE
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