Stone Roses Icon Mani to Be Honoured with Community Mural in Greater Manchester
A heartfelt mural paying tribute to the late Stone Roses and Primal Scream bass player Gary "Mani" Mounfield has commenced in Failsworth, Greater Manchester. The artwork is set to adorn the exterior of Lafadi's Pub on Oldham Road, located in the area where the musician spent his formative years. Artist Pic.One.Art is anticipated to complete the piece within five to seven days, with all proceeds from the campaign directed to Maggie's cancer charity.
Ian Brown Champions Campaign for Lasting Tribute
The community-driven project has been organised by the not-for-profit arts group Grit Studios, following Mani's passing last year. It draws inspiration from Stone Roses singer Ian Brown, who expressed his desire at the funeral to campaign for a 50ft statue commemorating his former bandmate. Brown has fronted the initiative, highlighting the deep bond and respect within the music community.
John Macaulay, co-founder of Grit Studios, shared personal reflections on Mani's impact. "Mani was one of the warmest, funniest and most generous people I've ever known. He had time for everyone," Macaulay said. "The work we did together over a decade ago genuinely changed my life, and without his support, Grit Studios probably wouldn't exist."
He added, "The support so far for this campaign has been incredible. There's still time for people to get involved and donate to the crowdfunder, and every contribution is helping us not only bring this mural to life but also raise vital funds for Maggie's in Manchester."
Family and Charity Involvement in the Project
Mani's brother, Greg Mounfield, played a pivotal role in securing the venue for the artwork and has championed the initiative from its inception. All funds raised will benefit Maggie's, the cancer charity that provided crucial support to Mani's wife, Imelda, throughout her treatment. Dame Laura Lee, chief executive of Maggie's, paid tribute, stating, "Everyone at Maggie's was deeply saddened about Mani's passing last year."
She continued, "We remember Mani and Imelda so fondly from when we supported them at our Manchester centre after Imelda's cancer diagnosis. Their generosity and time meant a great deal to us, and Mani spoke about how the kindness shown to them helped restore his faith in human nature."
"I am delighted that a mural will be created in Mani's honour in the community that meant so much to him. We are incredibly grateful that the money raised will support Maggie's – it will make a real difference for people impacted by cancer in Manchester," Lee added.
Artist Enthusiasm and Musical Legacy
Artist Pic.One.Art expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying he "couldn't wait to get started" on the mural. He noted, "Mani meant so much to so many people" and it was "an honour to be asked to create something that celebrates his life."
Mani tragically died aged 63 on November 20, last year, at his home in Heaton Moor, Stockport. The music legend passed away peacefully in his sleep due to "respiratory issues" following a long-standing battle with the lung condition emphysema. An ambulance was called, and paramedics attended the family home, but he could not be revived, with his death declared at the scene.
The legendary bassist featured on the Stone Roses' iconic self-titled debut album in 1989, as well as its follow-up, The Second Coming, released in 1994. Following the band's split, Mani joined Scottish rock outfit Primal Scream, contributing to a string of albums, including Vanishing Point (1997), XTRMNTR (2000), and Riot City Blues (2006). His enduring legacy continues to inspire fans and fellow musicians alike.
