Rochdale to Become a ‘Colourful Canvas’ as World-Class Mural Festival Arrives
Rochdale, Greater Manchester – Rochdale town centre is set to be transformed into a spectacular open-air art gallery this September, as a new international festival brings world-class artists to the borough to create a series of stunning, large-scale murals.
From Sunday, 7th September, to Sunday, 14th September, the ‘Common Walls’ international mural festival will see ten town centre buildings become dramatic landmarks. Each mural will tell a story inspired by Rochdale’s rich history, diverse people, and vibrant culture, creating a lasting artistic legacy for the town.
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The public is invited to witness the unique creative process, watching in real-time as the huge artworks are brought to life by the talented artists. All ten murals will be located within a 30-minute walk of each other, forming an accessible cultural trail through the heart of the town. A map will be available to guide visitors to each location.
The festival boasts an impressive line-up of internationally acclaimed artists, including Greek photorealism master Insane51, Swiss duo Onur, and the renowned Scottish artist Smug1. They will be joined by SecaOne, AYLO, Epod, and Lei Mai, all of whom are celebrated for their impactful murals worldwide.
Leading the project as both lead artist and curator is Rochdale-raised Hayley Garner, known professionally as AYLO. A renowned street artist and one half of the celebrated Manchester-based duo Nomad Clan, AYLO has co-created some of Europe’s largest public artworks, including the UK’s tallest mural—a 47-metre piece near Leeds train station.
Garner said it will be special to bring her craft to her hometown, particularly during its year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture. Her work often explores powerful themes of resilience, history, and cultural identity.
The festival will also feature deeply personal and community-focused projects. Artist Rhian Kempadoo-Millar will collaborate with Cabasa Carnival Arts on their first-ever mural, which will explore Women’s 'Unheard Stories' around reproductive healthcare. The piece is inspired by conversations with women from across Greater Manchester, including members of Rochdale-based groups Seriously Crafty and Soul Sisters.
The week-long event will culminate in a vibrant celebration on Saturday, 13th September. Visitors are invited to see the finished masterpieces and enjoy a day of free, family-friendly activities, including thrilling BMX stunt shows, hands-on street art workshops, a live graffiti jam, pop-up galleries, artist talks, and live music.
Common Walls is a highlight of Rochdale’s tenure as the Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26. The prestigious title, awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, celebrates the borough’s creativity, talent, and dynamic arts scene.
Event Details:
What: Common Walls International Mural Festival
Where: Rochdale Town Centre
When: Sunday, 7th September – Sunday, 14th September 2024
Cost: Free to attend
From Sunday, 7th September, to Sunday, 14th September, the ‘Common Walls’ international mural festival will see ten town centre buildings become dramatic landmarks. Each mural will tell a story inspired by Rochdale’s rich history, diverse people, and vibrant culture, creating a lasting artistic legacy for the town.
.jpg)
The public is invited to witness the unique creative process, watching in real-time as the huge artworks are brought to life by the talented artists. All ten murals will be located within a 30-minute walk of each other, forming an accessible cultural trail through the heart of the town. A map will be available to guide visitors to each location.
The festival boasts an impressive line-up of internationally acclaimed artists, including Greek photorealism master Insane51, Swiss duo Onur, and the renowned Scottish artist Smug1. They will be joined by SecaOne, AYLO, Epod, and Lei Mai, all of whom are celebrated for their impactful murals worldwide.
Leading the project as both lead artist and curator is Rochdale-raised Hayley Garner, known professionally as AYLO. A renowned street artist and one half of the celebrated Manchester-based duo Nomad Clan, AYLO has co-created some of Europe’s largest public artworks, including the UK’s tallest mural—a 47-metre piece near Leeds train station.
Garner said it will be special to bring her craft to her hometown, particularly during its year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture. Her work often explores powerful themes of resilience, history, and cultural identity.
The festival will also feature deeply personal and community-focused projects. Artist Rhian Kempadoo-Millar will collaborate with Cabasa Carnival Arts on their first-ever mural, which will explore Women’s 'Unheard Stories' around reproductive healthcare. The piece is inspired by conversations with women from across Greater Manchester, including members of Rochdale-based groups Seriously Crafty and Soul Sisters.
The week-long event will culminate in a vibrant celebration on Saturday, 13th September. Visitors are invited to see the finished masterpieces and enjoy a day of free, family-friendly activities, including thrilling BMX stunt shows, hands-on street art workshops, a live graffiti jam, pop-up galleries, artist talks, and live music.
Common Walls is a highlight of Rochdale’s tenure as the Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26. The prestigious title, awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, celebrates the borough’s creativity, talent, and dynamic arts scene.
Event Details:
What: Common Walls International Mural Festival
Where: Rochdale Town Centre
When: Sunday, 7th September – Sunday, 14th September 2024
Cost: Free to attend
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