Joy Division Mural in Manchester, Erased for Aitch Album Ad, Resurrected in Grand Style

In an uplifting turn of events, the iconic mural of Joy Division’s enigmatic frontman, Ian Curtis, in Manchester has been resurrected, reclaiming its rightful place on the city’s artistic canvas. The mural had suffered an untimely demise last year when it was inadvertently wiped away by an Amazon Music advertisement promoting Aitch’s album, as noted by NME. However, the story now takes a heartening twist as the original artist, known as Akse, secured the much-needed planning permission to recreate the mural at a new location, following extensive deliberations with local authorities.

The resplendent reincarnation of this artistic gem graces the side of a pub near Piccadilly railway station, and its unveiling couldn’t have been more poignant, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day. The restoration of this beloved mural serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and hope, resonating with the community it represents.

Back when the news of the mural’s accidental erasure broke in 2022, Aitch, the British rapper whose album ad inadvertently led to the mural’s demise, promptly extended his apologies and committed to rectify the situation. Bernard Sumner of New Order had expressed his sentiments, stating, “Seems as if someone’s misjudged this and it shouldn’t have happened, but Aitch has said he’s going to put it right so it will get fixed, no harm done.” Peter Hook, another prominent figure in the music scene, expressed his gratitude to Aitch for his swift response.

In a heartwarming post on social media accompanying the mural’s resurrection, Akse expressed his gratitude not only to Aitch but also to the Manchester City Council and the music and mental health festival, Headstock, for their support in bringing this cherished artwork back to life. It’s important to note that the original mural had been conceived as part of a mental health awareness initiative, with the full backing of the Manchester City Council. Akse had conveyed on social media that the mural had transcended its status as mere street art; it had become a cultural cornerstone, holding profound significance for the people of Manchester and beyond. Its restoration is a testament to its enduring importance and the resilience of the community it serves.

The aerial view of the newly reinstated mural on the Star & Garter pub in Manchester, captured on September 8, 2023, is a sight to behold. The mural pays tribute to Ian Curtis, who tragically took his own life in 1980, and stands as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Originally conceived for World Mental Health Day in 2020, the mural’s controversial replacement by an ad for Aitch’s album in 2022 sparked a public outcry, underscoring its profound cultural significance to Manchester.

This heartening resurgence of the Joy Division mural is not just a triumph of art but also a triumph of community spirit and resilience. It stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the enduring power of artistic expression and its ability to unite and heal even in the face of adversity.

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More about Joy Division Mural Revival

• NME article on the Joy Division mural restoration
• Akse P19’s Instagram post about the mural restoration
• BBC News coverage of the mural’s revival
• World Suicide Prevention Day official website