The town is set to become Greater Manchester’s most colourful canvas this September
Internationally acclaimed street artists will descend on Rochdale this September for ‘Common Walls’; an international mural festival and arts event which will bring large-scale artworks to life across the town centre.
Between 7-14 September, ten town centre buildings will be transformed into huge-scale artworks, each telling a story inspired by Rochdale’s history, people and culture.
Members of the public are encouraged to come down and watch the murals being created in real time. All murals will be situated within a 30-minute walk of each other, forming a unique open-air gallery in the heart of the town. A map will also be available to guide visitors from one to the next.
International artists on the line-up include Insane51, Onur, Smug1, SecaOne, AYLO, Epod and Lei Mai. These artists have a combined social following of over a million and are known for their impactful murals worldwide.
The festival concludes with a vibrant weekend celebration on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September, where visitors can marvel at the finished artworks and enjoy free family-friendly activities and attractions, such as BMX stunt shows, street art workshops, a live graffiti jam, pop-up galleries, artist talks, live music and more.
Lead artist and curator of ‘Common Walls’, Hayley Garner aka AYLO, who grew up in Rochdale said it will be special to bring her craft to Rochdale during its year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture: “I’ve painted murals all over the world, but nothing compares to painting in your hometown alongside artists I have looked up to and admired, especially during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture. I’m excited to see every day spaces transformed into landmarks of creativity and connection. What makes this even more special is welcoming world-class artists I’ve met on my journey, many of whom will be painting in Greater Manchester for the first time. They are amongst the best in the world and to bring them to my hometown is a real honour.”
Councillor Sue Smith, Cabinet Member for Communities and Co-Operation at Rochdale Borough Council said: “This exciting festival will help celebrate the creative spirit and heritage in Rochdale during our year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture showcasing local and internationally renowned artistic talent as well as some of the diverse networks of creative organisations in and around Rochdale and Greater Manchester. Building on the eye-catching artwork we already have and breathing new life into spaces, this will leave a permanent legacy in prominent locations around the town, creating an attraction that visitors and residents will enjoy for years to come.”
Pete Courtie, Head of Culture and Placemaking at Rochdale Development Agency, said: “Common Walls is part of our vision for Rochdale to be a place where creativity, community and opportunity come together, reflecting the borough’s pioneering and cooperative approach to building an equitable economy. With ongoing investment into vibrant public spaces, our world-class cultural programming and community-led initiatives, Rochdale is driving its ambition to attract investment, support skilled people, and create a great place to live, visit and do business.”
Common Walls International Mural Festival is part of a spectacular line-up of festivals, live performances, exhibitions and art during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26. The title, awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, celebrates the town’s rich history, creativity, talent and diverse arts scene.
Find out more at www.rochdale.gov.uk/TownOfCulture.
The Common Walls International Mural Festival will be curated by The Big Heart Projects, run by The Butterfly Effected, a community interest company that helps create inspiring art.
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