A new mural in memory of The Stone Roses’ and Primal Scream bassist Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield has been completed in Failsworth and it's already attracting visitors.
Born and raised in the area, the musician and icon of the Manchester music scene died in November 2025 at the age of 63.
His new mural is located at La Fardy’s pub, formerly known as the New Sun Inn, on Oldham Road.
Mani’s brother Greg Mounfield helped source the location, which is close to where he grew up.
He said: “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.”
We went to check out the mural. As we arrived there were two workmen taking pictures of the art – just some of the many people that have come to see it and pay their respects to the musicians since the mural’s completion.
It shows a grey-scale portrait of Mani in his later years set against the iconic Stone Roses lemon logo, as well as another portrait of him performing when he was younger.
The commemorative artwork was created by Pic.One.Art, the artist behind other murals of local icons, including the Gallagher brothers at Sifters Records in Burnage and the Steve Coogan mural in his hometown of Middleton.
Commenting on the work, the artist 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.”
It was commissioned by GRIT Studios, with proceeds supporting Maggie’s, the cancer charity that supported Mani and his wife Imelda during her treatment.
The inspiration behind creating the mural came from the eulogy given by bandmate Ian Brown during Mani’s funeral.
He said: ““I want to start a campaign for a Mani statue – 50 feet high – a solid gold statue! Mani forever! God bless Mani!”
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.”
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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.”
The completion of the mural is not the only Mani tribute taking place this month.
On May 30, the ‘Manichester’ festival will be taking place at Diecast in the city centre.
It will feature live music, DJs, guest appearances and tributes.
The ‘Mural for Mani’ fundraiser is still accepting donations. More information can be found via Crowdfunder.
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