The Smiths’ Mike Joyce launches fundraiser to create permanent Manchester mural for bandmate Andy Rourke

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Murals are becoming an increasing feature of Manchester - and a campaign has been started to bring another to the city.

Famous sons and daughters of our city have been honoured, with one of the most famous being Joy Division’s Ian Curtis artwork. This is on the side of the Star and Garter pub near Piccadilly Station. 

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Several other musicians have been given their own murals across Manchester, and one of the next is set to be on the side of the Wheatsheaf Pub on Oak Street. The Smiths bassist Andy Rourke, who sadly died in May 2023 of pancreatic cancer, is set to be the subject thanks to a fundraising campaign launched by former bandmate Mike Joyce. 

Mike Joyce with artist Akse outside the proposed location of the mural in Manchester's Northern QuarterMike Joyce with artist Akse outside the proposed location of the mural in Manchester's Northern Quarter
Mike Joyce with artist Akse outside the proposed location of the mural in Manchester's Northern Quarter | Sal Thompson - GigJunkie

Joyce has launched the fundraiser in partnership with Pancreatic Cancer Action. World-renowned street artist Akse will bring the work to life on the side of the pub. He will use a striking image credited to The Smiths’ 1985-1986 UK/USA tour photographer Nalinee Darmrong which was taken in Dundee in 1985. 

Bandmate and friend, Mike Joyce, said: “Andy’s passing left us all absolutely devastated and I’ve been wanting to do something to celebrate his life and contribution to music. The idea of a mural in the centre of Manchester feels a fitting place and way for all his many fans to come and pay tribute.

 

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Artist illustration of the proposed mural by acclaimed street artist, Akse. Image is based on a photo by The Smiths' 1985/1986 USA/UK tour photographer Nalinee Darmrong. The photo was taken at the Caird Hall in Dundee in 1985Artist illustration of the proposed mural by acclaimed street artist, Akse. Image is based on a photo by The Smiths' 1985/1986 USA/UK tour photographer Nalinee Darmrong. The photo was taken at the Caird Hall in Dundee in 1985
Artist illustration of the proposed mural by acclaimed street artist, Akse. Image is based on a photo by The Smiths' 1985/1986 USA/UK tour photographer Nalinee Darmrong. The photo was taken at the Caird Hall in Dundee in 1985 | Nalinee Darmrong

“Securing a suitable site for the mural has been challenging at points as many locations and buildings have restrictions. However, the wonderful couple, Lisa and Robert of the Wheatsheaf pub, which is a big part of the local community in the Northern Quarter and an area where Andy lived for a while, came to the rescue and now, over a year since the plans began, we have secured a wonderful location.”

Mike added: “Thanks to this Crowdfunder, fans of Andy and The Smiths can contribute to a permanent memorial, but also increase awareness of this debilitating disease and raise money for the charity, Pancreatic Cancer Action. 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.”

A limited edition of 100 x A4 prints for fans who pledge £50, and 30 x A3 prints for fans who pledge £100, will be available, each signed by Mike Joyce and artist Akse. Donations include UK and international postage. The mural will be officially unveiled in November - Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month - at a special celebration with details to be announced in October. To contribute to the fundraiser, visit Crowdfunder. 

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