A Parisian artist called Florence Blanchard (also known as ema) has created a new piece of public art on a 30 metre long, 3 metre high wall on Tariff Street in Piccadilly Basin next to the Northern Quarter in Manchester city centre.
The piece, in blues and green, that reflect the waterside location, has a camouflage background with an abstract design on top. It was created over three days using spray paints, emulsion and gold paint.
Florence was chosen by Mark Brennan from Yuck Print House, the project’s funder, who explains: “I have known Florence for a long time and admired her work, which is always bright, colourful and eye catching. She has never painted in Manchester so this is a first for her and the city.”
Alex King, CityCo’s Partnership Director said: “It’s been fantastic to bring a new piece of public art to Piccadilly Basin. Since the wall was launched at our 2012 Canal Festival it has become known for contemporary art and this helps link Piccadilly Basin with its neighbour, the Northern Quarter. It’s great to host street art in this part of the city centre, home to the creative sector.”
Suzanne Gallagher, Asset Manager for Town Centre Securities (TCS) who own Piccadilly Basin where the wall is located said: “This piece of art really enhances the area. Piccadilly Basin is becoming a popular canal-side destination and a lovely, tranquil place to live in the heart of the city. Street art like this brings added interest for those who live, work and visit this part of the city centre.”
The artwork will be in place until 31 March 2014.
