The artist behind the recent mural of Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, bassist of The Stone Roses, is hoping to create a major public artwork in Wythenshawe celebrating the life and legacy of actor, writer and comedian Caroline Aherne. Manchester-based street artist Pic.One.Art is known for large-scale murals honouring some of the city’s most iconic cultural figures, including the Mani mural in Failsworth and the Oasis piece featuring Liam and Noel Gallagher at Sifters Records in Burnage.
Best known for creating and starring in iconic television shows including The Fast Show, The Royle Family and Mrs Merton, as well as narrating Gogglebox, Caroline Aherne remains one of Manchester’s most loved cultural figures. This month marks the 10th anniversary of her passing; therefore Pic.One.Art feels like it’s “the right moment to create something special in Wythenshawe” that celebrates her life and legacy. The artist is now appealing to local organisations, businesses, landlords and community groups to come forward with suitable wall space in the area where Caroline grew up.
The idea of creating something lasting for her in Wythenshawe feels fitting
Caroline Aherne’s close friend and long-time creative collaborator, Craig Cash, co-wrote and starred alongside her in The Royle Family, helping to create one of the most influential British sitcoms of all time.
Craig Cash said: “Caroline was the funniest and most talented person I’ve ever known, but she was also incredibly grounded and proud of where she came from. The idea of creating something lasting for her in Wythenshawe feels fitting, and I think people would love to see her remembered in that way.”
“It feels like the right moment to create something special in Wythenshawe that celebrates her life and legacy.”
Pic.One.Art said: “Caroline Aherne meant so much to so many people and represented a very real, funny and compassionate side of Greater Manchester that still resonates today. Her writing and characters captured working-class life in a way that was warm, honest and deeply human.
“With it being 10 years since we lost her this summer, it feels like the right moment to create something special in Wythenshawe that celebrates her life and legacy. After the reaction to the Mani mural, I’d love to create another piece of public art that people can connect with and feel proud of locally.”
Anyone able to offer or suggest a potential wall space in Wythenshawe is encouraged to get in touch via pickoneart@gmail.com.
