Mani’s unmistakable smile can be seen taking shape on the wall, as works progress for a lasting memorial to the much-loved Manchester music star
17:09, 16 Apr 2026Updated 19:24, 16 Apr 2026
The mural to Manchester music legend Mani is starting to take shape in Failsworth (Image: Greg Mounfield and Official Madchester)
Work has now started on a major new mural celebrating the life and legacy of Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield in a special place connected to the Stone Roses legend.
The public artwork is being created in Mani’s hometown of Failsworth, on the side of La Fardy pub on Oldham Road, formerly The Sun Inn. And on Thursday, Mani’s inimitable smile could be seen taking shape on the wall as progress was made on the very special memorial to the much-loved music icon.
Renowned artist Pic.One.Art, who has previously created murals in honour of Oasis in Burnage and to Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins, has been commissioned to create the new mural and the location was found by Mani’s brother Greg Mounfield, who is keeping a keen eye on the works in Failsworth this week.
Click here for the latest on Manchester’s food & drink scene, gigs and more in our CityLife newsletter
The mural is expected to take approximately a week to complete, weather permitting. The final design will become clear over the next week – although there’s already Primal Scream’s Screamadelica icon visible in one corner of the artwork, a nod to Mani’s time with the band.
Gary “Mani” Mounfield and his wife Imelda (Image: Ian Husband )
It forms part of a wider community-led initiative launched by the not-for-profit art organisation GRIT Studios, following an overwhelming outpouring of love for the legendary bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream.
Mani died in November aged 63, of respiratory issues linked to a long-standing lung condition. His death came just two years after the death of his beloved wife Imelda from cancer.
The project was inspired in part by Ian Brown’s moving eulogy at Manchester Cathedral, including his memorable tribute to his friend and band mate: “I want to start a campaign for a Mani statue – 50 feet high – a solid gold statue! Mani forever! God Bless Mani!”
The mural is being funded through a community crowdfunder organised by GRIT Studios, with all proceeds going to the cancer charity Maggie’s – a charity close to Mani and his wife Imelda’s hearts during her cancer treatment. You can still contribute to the fundraiser in Mani’s name, here.
Mani’s brother Greg Mounfield with the huge new mural taking shape in Failsworth(Image: Greg Mounfield and Official Madchester)
Mani’s brother Greg told the MEN why the location was so special for the mural – in their hometown. He said: “Seeing this mural come to life has knocked me sideways. It’s not just paint on a wall — it’s Manchester showing its heart for my brother.
“The support has been unbelievable, and every brushstroke is a reminder of how much love there is out there for Mani. We’re humbled, we’re grateful, and we’re determined to keep pushing for Maggie’s, who’ve been a lifeline for our family.
“And a massive thank you to Chris at Pic.On.Art — the graft and heart he’s put into this means the world to us.”
Greg with artist Pic.one.art as the mural begins to take shape in Failsworth(Image: Greg Mounfield and Official Madchester)
Artist Pic.One.Art said: “I couldn’t wait to get started on this mural. Mani meant so much to so many people, and it’s an honour to be asked to create something that celebrates his life here in Failsworth.
“There’s a real sense of love behind this project, and I’m excited to bring that to the wall for everyone to see.”
John Macaulay, co-founder of GRIT Studios said: “Mani was one of the warmest, funniest and most generous people I’ve ever known. He had time for everyone. The work we did together over a decade ago genuinely changed my life, and without his support, GRIT Studios probably wouldn’t exist.
“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.”
Dame Laura Lee, Chief Executive of Maggie’s has said: “Everyone at Maggie’s was deeply saddened about Mani’s passing last year. We remember Mani and Imelda so fondly from when we supported them at our Manchester centre after Imelda’s cancer diagnosis.
(Image: Greg Mounfield and Official Madchester)
“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.
“Maggie’s offer free expert psychological, emotional and practical support for people with cancer, as well as their family and friends, in 27 centres across the UK – please come in if you need support.”
The mural is expected to become a lasting cultural landmark in North Manchester, offering fans and the local community a place to reflect and celebrate Mani’s enduring influence on music and culture.