Mural of two Black community leaders behind arts group unveiled in Manchester

Two inspirational Black community leaders from Manchester have been celebrated in a spectacular new mural which has been unveiled.

Ekua Bayunu and Angela Ankeli, the founders of Global Arts Manchester, are shown in the artwork on the Co-op Funeralcare building in Moss Side.

The company worked with the local community to come up with people who had made a real difference in the area as part of its commitment to celebrating ethnic minority people and their achievements the whole year round, not just during Black History Month.

What is the mural and where has it been unveiled?

The mural is a hand-drawn artwork depicting two of the four founders of Global Arts Manchester.

Co-op Funeralcare worked with the local community to nominate and champion inspirational figures who have made an impact on the lives of those living in their local area.

The striking black and white mural, which measures 4.2m by 3m, captures Ekua and Angela to celebrate their contribution to the local community.

Co-op Funeralcare said it wants to champion Black individuals and communities during the whole of the year, not just every October when Black History Month is marked.

Three murals have been created in different UK cities.

A focus group of Black Co-op leaders and colleague decided it wanted to spotlight and uplift the voices and causes being championed by Black individuals within the community as well as continue the ongoing dialogue around race and identity within the business and with customers beyond Black History Month alone.

What is Global Arts Manchester?

Global Arts Manchester is a non-profit organisation which works to make things better for artists and audiences from culturally diverse or economically challenged backgrounds.

It was founded by Ekua Bayunu, Angela Ankeli, Lorraine Ballintine, and Aduke Finni provides training and opportunities for a career in the arts to people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

It also creates sustainable and affordable studio space for female artists and delivers community workshops and exhibitions across Manchester.

As well as being a co-founder of the not-for-profit Ekua Bayunu is also involved in Manchester politics as a Labour councillor representing Hulme ward in the chamber.

What has been said about the mural?

Ekua Bayunu, founder and chair of Global Arts Manchester, said: “We want to dedicate this mural to all the amazing activists of Moss Side who we’ve worked tirelessly alongside for many, many years. So many unsung heroes, not just of yesteryear, but now!”

Sam Tyrer, managing director of Co-op Funeralcare, said: “It is an honour for one of Co-op’s stunning murals to feature on the exterior of our Leech’s funeral home in Moss Side.

“Supporting communities is at the heart of what we do, and we hope this incredible work of art reflects our commitment to campaign for race diversity, inclusivity and equality, and is a real testament to the incredible communities of Manchester.”