A historic mill is being offered up as a five-storey canvas for an artists to paint a mural, adding to the city’s flourishing street art scene.
Developers Capital&Centric are looking to commission a local artist to create a ‘striking’ and ‘permanent’ piece at Neptune Mill in Piccadilly East. The building, which dates back to the 19th century is currently being developed into 22,000 sq ft of creative workspaces.
The developers are looking for a unique design that will take over the entire west side wall of the mill on Chapeltown Street, as well as the tower rising above it and a smaller spot. Intended time frames mean that the mural would be completed in time for summer.
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Tom Wilmot, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “Manchester’s street art scene is thriving, bringing colour and creativity to the city’s streets. Increasingly, some of the pieces are connected to brands and only available for a short spell for people to marvel at.
“We want to hand over Neptune Mill to a talented artist to paint the piece they’ve always wanted to deliver, creating a permanent fixture on Manchester’s scene.
“The piece will mark the start of the building’s next chapter as a five-storey hub for businesses that want a creative, beautiful base. The on-site coffee shop and new courtyard will be really cool spaces where people can spend time and meet like-minded neighbouring businesses.
“Work on site’s progressing well and the first occupiers will be able to move in and call Neptune home this summer.”
Dating back to the 1860s, the Grade II-listed warehouse can be found in Manchester’s emerging Piccadilly East neighbourhood. When the conversion is complete, developers say Neptune Mill will retain the building’s original charm and features including exposed brick, timber beams, huge windows and cast iron columns, whilst boasting ‘bold contemporary’ elements.
(Image: Capital&Centric)
As well as one floor becoming Capital&Centric’s new HQ, the building will encompass a new outdoor courtyard and a ground-floor coffee shop.
The hunt for an artist seeks to build on Mancunian Art Spray in 2019, which saw the neighbouring Baird Street Car Park turn into a street art gallery for charitable causes. Those interested in the paid-for street art commission, or looking to enquire about new workspaces and coffee shop are encouraged to contact Capital&Centric directly.