New artwork revealed in Stockport station underpass

An official launch was recently held at Stockport station to celebrate the unveiling of 40 individual pieces of art, which have been installed in the underpass below the platforms.

The artwork, funded by Avanti West Coast and managed by South East Manchester and Crewe to Manchester Community Rail Partnership, is a celebration of Stockport’s rich musical heritage from the 1960’s to the present day.

Created by Seven Miles Out Arts CIC and working with six local artists, commuters will see forty panels covered in unique pieces of art depicting musicians that have played, lived or recorded in Stockport throughout the years.

A ticketed event, which sold out in less than two weeks, was also held on Sunday 29th March at the station and saw special guests, whose musical legacy have been depicted in the exhibition, give their audience a rare and special Q&A session as well as a one-off tour of the artwork.

All proceeds made from the event were donated to local Stockport based charity and Stockport station’s supported charity, Mentell.

Lisa Musgrave, Avanti West Coast Station Manager at Stockport, said:

“This mural brightens up the station’s underpass and creates a vibrant gateway for everyone arriving in Stockport by rail. It’s a great addition to the station, which is already considered a cultural landmark, and captures the stories of those who have worked, visited, or performed in the area.

“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.”

Gillian Renshaw, Community Rail Officer said:

“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. From The Beatles and Bowie to Blossoms, this is a true celebration of those sung and unsung heroes that played a key part to the area.”