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

A major new mural celebrating the life and legacy of Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield has been unveiled at La Fardy on Oldham Road in Failsworth, already drawing visitors and music fans from across the UK and around the world.

Created by renowned Manchester artist Pic.One.Art, the striking large-scale artwork pays tribute to the legendary bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream in the area where he grew up.  

Since its completion, fans have travelled to Failsworth to see the mural, take photographs, and leave flowers and personal tributes in honour of one of Manchester’s most beloved musicians. 

The mural features a young Mani, based on an iconic image from the era when The Stone Roses performed on The Other Side of Midnight, alongside a second portrait capturing him in later years. Together, the images reflect both his youthful energy and the warmth, humour and spirit he became known for throughout his life. 

The project forms part of a wider community-led initiative launched by not-for-profit arts organisation GRIT Studios, following the outpouring of affection after Mani’s passing.  

The campaign was further inspired by Ian Brown’s eulogy at Manchester Cathedral, in which he called for a lasting tribute, declaring: “I want to start a campaign for a Mani statue – 50 feet high – a solid gold statue! Mani forever! God bless Mani!” 

Located at Lafadi’s Pub, a site of personal significance near where Mani grew up, the mural was made possible with support from his brother, Greg Mounfield, who helped secure the location and has been closely involved throughout. 

The mural has been funded through a community crowdfunder organised by GRIT Studios, with proceeds supporting Maggie’s, the cancer charity that supported Mani and his wife Imelda during her treatment. 

Its unveiling comes ahead of ‘Manichester’, a major celebration of Mani’s life and legacy taking place at Diecast, Manchester, on Saturday, May 30.  

The sold-out event will feature live music, DJs, guest appearances and tributes, with the 5,000-capacity venue set to host one of the city’s most significant cultural celebrations of the year. 

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 is 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, celebrating Mani’s enduring influence on music, Manchester culture and generations of fans. 

Donations to the ‘Mural for Mani’ crowdfunder remain open: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/mani-mural