At the end of March, Stockport station was packed with artists, musicians and local enthusiasts for the official launch of the new ‘Underpass Hall of Fame’ art project.
Forty new pieces of art that celebrate the city’s musical heritage were unveiled in the underpass during the launch, which was attended by many members of the public.
What is it?
The art project has been funded by Avanti West Coast and managed by South East Manchester and Crewe to Manchester Community Rail Partnerships (that’s us!). It’s intended to be a celebration of Stockport’s rich musical heritage from the 1960s to the present day.
The art has been produced by Seven Miles Out Arts CIC, which worked with six local artists to create unique pieces of art depicting musicians that have played, lived or recorded in Stockport throughout the years.
John Barratt, Director of Seven Miles Out Arts CIC said, “as a proud resident of Stockport, this project means so much to me and the artists involved in bringing all this to life.”
The art works are spread along the underpass at the station and can be enjoyed by locals and visitors, who may or may not be aware of the strong legacy of music and recording artists in the area.
The launch event was held on Sunday 29 March and was open to the public. Tickets sold out in less than a fortnight, with proceeds from ticket sales being donated to Mentell, a local charity that is supported by Stockport station.
The event attracted many music fans as the special guests were pretty special! Musical legends who joined the event included Dee Christopholus (lead singer with the legendary Wimple Winch, the band supporting Jimi Hendrix when he played at The Sinking Ship); Pete Maclaine (of Pete Maclaine and The Clan and friend to The Beatles); Joe Beard of The Purple Gang (who played on the same bill as David Bowie at the Poco A Poco).
Music past and future
Gillian Renshaw, from the Community Rail Partnerships, said that “with the Brit and MOBO Awards held in Manchester for the first time, this feels like a timely project that really captures the heritage of Stockport and the significance it has to the music industry. Community rail is all about inclusion and connecting people to their railway.”
Lisa Musgrave, Avanti West Coast Station Manager for Stockport, added: “We’re pleased to have supported the community and local artists to celebrate the town’s rich musical heritage. With its unique perspective, we hope the artwork will help people to discover something new and encourage them to explore more of Stockport’s music scene.”
