A crowdfund has been launched to raise money to install a permanent mural to the late The Smiths star Andy Rourke. Widely regarded as one of the best bassists of his generation, Andy Rourke died in May last year from pancreatic cancer.
Initiated by his former bandmate Mike Joyce, drummer with The Smiths, and in partnership with charity Pancreatic Cancer Action, a new mural has been proposed for Manchester, in tribute to Andy.
The new artwork is planned for the side of the Wheatsheaf Pub in the Northern Quarter, an area of the city Andy loved, and will be brought to life by renowned street artist Akse. The image used will depict a striking one of Andy Rourke in action, credited to The Smiths tour photographer Nalinee Darmrong, who has given her blessing to the project.
Fans of The Smiths from across the globe can now donate to the Crowdfunder. A limited edition of 100 A4 prints for fans who pledge £50, and 30 A3 prints for fans who pledge £100, will be available, each signed by Mike Joyce and artist Akse.
Andy Rourke’s bandmate and friend Mike Joyce, said: “Andy’s passing left us all absolutely devastated and I’ve been wanting to do something to celebrate his life and contribution to music. The idea of a mural in the centre of Manchester feels a fitting place and way for all his many fans to come and pay tribute.
“Securing a suitable site for the mural has been challenging at points as many locations and buildings have restrictions. However, the wonderful couple, Lisa and Robert of the Wheatsheaf pub, which is a big part of the local community in the Northern Quarter and an area where Andy lived for a while, came to the rescue and now, over a year since the plans began, we have secured a wonderful location.
Mike added: “Thanks to this Crowdfunder, fans of Andy and The Smiths can contribute to a permanent memorial, but also increase awareness of this debilitating disease and raise money for the charity, Pancreatic Cancer Action.
“The mural will not only serve as a permanent tribute to Andy’s legacy as a brilliant musician but also as a memory of the funniest, sweetest lad I had the pleasure of knowing.”
The Andy Rourke mural will be officially unveiled in November to coincide with Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, at a special celebration with details to be announced next month.
You can donate to the Crowdfunder here.
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