Magnificent mural honouring music legend Mani unveiled in Failsworth as fans travel from across the world

The artwork has already attracted visitors from across the UK and overseas, with fans leaving flowers and tributes to the former bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream.

Created by Manchester artist Pic.One.Art, the large scale mural pays tribute to Mani in the community where he grew up.

The artwork features two portraits of the musician. One is based on an image from the era when The Stone Roses appeared on “The Other Side of Midnight”, while the second captures him in later life.

The project forms part of a wider community led campaign organised by GRIT Studios following the widespread public reaction after Mani’s death.

The initiative was further inspired by comments made by Ian Brown during a eulogy at Manchester Cathedral, where he called for a lasting tribute to Mani.

Located at La Fardy, formerly known as the New Sun Inn, the mural was supported by Mani’s brother Greg Mounfield, who helped secure the location.

Funding for the artwork came through a community crowdfunder organised by GRIT Studios, with proceeds supporting Maggie's, the charity which supported Mani and his wife Imelda during her cancer treatment.

The unveiling comes ahead of “Manichester”, a sold out celebration of Mani’s life taking place at Diecast on Saturday 30 May.

John Macaulay, co founder of GRIT Studios, said: “The response since the mural was completed has been incredible. People have travelled from all over the world to pay their respects to Mani, which really shows how loved he was not just as a musician, but as a person.

“This project has always been about creating something meaningful for the community while raising money for Maggie’s. Seeing how emotionally people are connecting with it has been very special.”

Dame Laura Lee, chief executive of Maggie’s, said: “Everyone at Maggie’s was deeply saddened by Mani’s passing. We remember Mani and Imelda fondly from when we supported them at our Manchester centre. Their kindness and generosity meant a great deal to us.

“We are incredibly grateful that this mural and fundraising campaign are supporting Maggie’s Manchester. Every donation will make a real difference to people living with cancer and their families.”

Artist Pic.One.Art said: “The reaction to the mural has been amazing. People have travelled from all over to see it, and there’s a real emotional connection with the artwork. Mani meant so much to Manchester and to music fans everywhere, so creating this tribute in the area where he grew up has been a real honour.”

Greg Mounfield added: “As a family, we’ve been overwhelmed by the love people have shown for Mani. Seeing fans come from across the world to visit the mural has been incredibly emotional.

“He never forgot where he came from, and Manchester meant everything to him, so having this tribute here in Failsworth feels right. The mural captures both the young Mani people fell in love with and the warmth and smile everyone remembers.”

The mural is expected to become a lasting cultural landmark in north Manchester, recognising Mani’s influence on music and Manchester culture.

Supporters can still donate through the crowdfunder campaign.