Monday, October 08, 2012

Monday Murals: Manchester Rose 2002


(Click on image to view full-size version)

This is the centre panel of a mural inside the Piccadilly tunnel through which the Rochdale Canal passes.

(Click on image to view full-size version)

For many years, the tunnel below Piccadilly, which includes Lock 85, had been a neglected and menacing area. In 2002/3, in readiness for the re-opening of the whole Rochdale Canal, the tunnel area was improved, with better lighting, dark recesses blocked off by panelling and a new walkway avoiding the need to walk around the edge of the underground area. The new mural brightens the panelling.

(Click on image to view full-size version)

The mural celebrates in art the cultural heritage of Manchester, from the industrial revolution through to the Commonwealth Games. Its centrepieces are renditions of the Commonwealth Games 2002 logo and the canal boat 'Manchester Rose 2002', emphasising the importance that year played in rejuvenating the city's 20 mile waterway system.

More information on the Pennine Waterways website.

A contribution to Monday Murals.



7 comments:

  1. They are gorgeous Gerald and new to me as well. I must pop along and have a look when I get time- a great find.

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  2. It's great that artists can bring colour and history to liven up a blank space.

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  3. I am always impressed when the city uses their space for something pleasant to view, rather than a dull, blank wall! Nice work!

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  4. this would make me want to walk through that tunnel

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  5. This is where murals really work! They have made a menacing place so friendly. Nicely done.

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  6. I'm quite impressed when waterways are driven underground. Seems like an engineering marvel even though the technology dates back to the Roman Empire, if not earlier. I agree with RedPat that the murals make the space feel more welcoming. Thank you, Gerald, for contributing to Monday Mural.

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  7. I envy you such a piece of living history - ans that it is being maintained too.

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