Jamie’s Mural Celebrates Lisa Stansfield IN COMMON WALLS FESTIVAL

Review by Steve Cooke

One of the many outstanding works of art now adorning the walls of Rochdale’s town centre is a celebration of singer, songwriter, actress and world renowned superstar Lisa Stansfield.

Lisa’s roots are very much in the area. Her family moved to Heywood in 1976, then to Rochdale in 1977. She attended Siddal Moor School (Heywood), Redbrook Middle School and Oulder Hill Community School (both in Rochdale).

Her big breakthrough came in 1989 with debut album “Affection” which contained the world-wide hit that was to become her signature song, “All Around the World”.

“Affection” kicked of a career that led to Lisa becoming Britain's biggest solo female artist of the '90s, selling 20 million albums and memorably duetting with George Michael accompanied by Queen at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert.

Lisa’s latest album "Deeper" sees her back to the classic sound of 'Affection' and includes outstanding tracks such as "Billionaire" "Everything" and "Never Ever".

I asked Lisa what she thought about this recent addition to her hometown’s works of art:

“What a heart touching compliment! It’s such an honour to be part of the International Mural Festival and that Jamie Buckley created this on Yorkshire Street. Those words mean so much to me and I’m proud  they were created in Rochdale like all this wonderful art.” 

Artist Jamie Buckley was a DJ but had to give it up because of tinnitus, he was inspired by the 2019 Rochdale Uprising festival and started helping out and went on to channel his creative energy into mural painting.

He ended up supporting festival curator Hayley Garner over the course of the Common Walls festival and was keen to create this mural, Jamie was aided by Rochdale Development Agency in finding a spot and securing the relevant permissions etc.

In addition to this, earlier this year Jamie was commissioned by the library service to create a mural on the facade of Balderstone Library.

Curated by artist AYLO (Hayley Garner), the festival has brought together a line-up of internationally renowned artists alongside local talent. Each mural responds in its own way to Rochdale’s history, people and culture.

Great, inspiring art free for all to enjoy on walls spreading across such as Drake Street, Baillie Street and Milton Street – all within easy walking distance around Rochdale town centre.

To enjoy all these stunning murals, download a map at https://www.rochdale.gov.uk/downloads/download/1216/common-walls-festival-guide