LIVERPOOL CULTURE COMPANY BACKS PROJECT

In an exclusive interview with Radio Merseyside's Roger Phillips on Monday, Deputy Chairman of Liverpool Culture Company Phil Redmond confirmed support and funding for The Liverpool Mural Project. Speaking on the popular phone-in show, Redmond talked about the historic and exciting plans agreed with TLMP for 2008.

"We are very pleased to announce today that we have found a way to support The Liverpool Mural project" Phil Redmond

"It’s the fact that the artists leading the paintings are from both communities in Northern Ireland and are working together for the first time that got me excited, and the idea of ordinary Liverpool people getting involved" Roger Phillips

We hope to have the full interview on the site very soon for everyone to hear Phil and Roger’s enthusiasm for our project as part of Liverpool's official 2008 Capital of Culture celebrations, as soon as we’ve got the MP3 sorted.

NERVE issue 11- featuring TLMP and Promoting grassroots arts and the real culture on Merseyside

In an excellent article by Alison Cornmell on page 6, Nerve magazine, issue 11 features The Liverpool Mural Project

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"For Liverpool to be the city that hosts the art of this collaboration would be a real highlight in its cultural year"

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This special issue which is out now also contains a great Merseyside Resistance Calendar for 2008.

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While the official art world has been gearing up for the celebrations, at Nerve we have been burning the midnight oil, collecting stories of activism, resistance and rebellion. We think that a celebration of the 'People's Culture' is in order: the culture that has shaped the city over many years, and won't end with the dawn of 2009. So, this edition of Nerve is mostly given over to this theme.

TLMP is proud to be associated with Nerve, which more than any other arts publication and website in Liverpool captures Liverpool's real social issues and promotes Liverpool's real culture.

Nerve is available at libraries, community centres, colleges, supermarkets, and all good cafes and bars, or from thier office: Catalyst Creative Media, 85-89 Duke Street, Liverpool, L1 5AP and News from Nowhere, Bold Street, Liverpool City Centre.

Simply click on heading of this post to see the full feature

Irish Prime Minister supports Liverpool Mural Project

The Prime Minister (Taoiseach) of The Republic of Ireland, Bertie Ahern has contacted The Liverpool Mural Project to pass on his support of TLMP.

"Both Danny Devenny and Mark Ervine are highly respected artists in their field and I as Taoiseach wish this project which will see non-political murals showcasing Liverpools cultural and historical past for Liverpool's 2008 European Capital of Culture year every success. I also believe that this project is a wonderful opportunity to show how the peace process can bring together people from all the communities in Northern Ireland. I would like to commend you on your initiative and wish your project every success."

We continue to receive support from a wide range of political parties both in Ireland and the United Kingdom. The Liverpool Mural Project feels justified in its continued stance in creating greater bonds between communities in Northern Ireland as well as between Ireland and Liverpool.

Leading Irish novelist and screenwriter backs TLMP

More support this week for The Liverpool Mural Project from leading Irish novelist and screenwriter Ronan Bennett, who contacted the website to back our plans for Liverpool in 2008. Bennett was brought up in Belfast. He is the author of four novels, including the hugely acclaimed The Catastrophist (short listed for the Whitbread Novel Award) and Havoc, in Its Third Year (winner of the Irish Novel of the Year and long listed for both the Booker Prize and the IMPAC award). He has also written screenplays for film and television. His latest novel Zugzwang was serialised weekly in the Observer in 2006. Ronan Bennett lives in London with his family and contributes regularly to the British and Irish press.

'The Belfast murals are examples of the most vivid, dynamic and democratic kind of art. I would like to offer my support to the art and the artists in their plans to work with people in Liverpool to start an equally vibrant mural tradition there.'

Community newspaper The Irish World covers TLMP

IF it's happening in the Irish world, you'll read all about it in the Irish World. This week they reported on The Liverpool Mural Project. Now in its 20th year, the Irish World has established itself among the Irish population in Britain and Ireland as the newspaper that puts community first and making it the first choice when it comes to news, views and information about Ireland and the Irish in Britain.

"We are an integral part of the Irish community in Britain and we are trusted by that community."

Simply click on heading of this post to see the full feature

Echo letters, 20th November 2007: Murals magic

THE Liverpool Mural Project is important for many reasons.
Firstly, the Belfast mural artists are gifted craftsmen. Whilst their previous work was forged in the cauldron of armed conflict, they are now spreading their wings. Secondly, for both muralists to decide to work in Liverpool means something significant to Liverpool’s Irish community, those who identify themselves as unionists, and all points in-between. Thirdly, the project is democratic in nature. Both muralists have suggested that ordinary members of the public will be able to join them. Finally, the project has the potential to say something profound about Liverpool’s history and heritage, and as a result has caught the imagination of that mythical beast, the ordinary Scouser. I look forward to walking through Liverpool and spotting unique murals that capture the spirit of Liverpool and which tell their own story. Dr Stuart Borthwick, Liverpool JMU

TLMP fatured on Channel 4.com: MURALS MATTER

In an excellent article by Brendan Deeds, the channel 4 website has an exclusive interview with the Belfast artists Danny Devenny and Mark Ervine about The Liverpool Murals

Simply click on heading of this post to see the full feature

From the very beginning of the Liverpool Mural Project's existence we have received excellent reports right across the media world be it local and International press or local and international radio broadcasts. Now the television world has not only picked up on the creative aspect of our mural project, but rightly so, the significance of these mural artists working alongside each other. Channel Four’s excellent website 4 Talent has in the last few days, reviewed the work and commitment of the Liverpool Mural Projects very own Danny Devenny and Mark Ervine. Since the tentative early days when TLMP brought together for the first time these two highly sort after artists, demand for the pairs enormous talents have escalated. With calls for their skills both in their native Belfast as well as across the world this further highlights the enormity of the TLMP’s ability to cross the boundaries of political divide by using art as a means to unite communities.

Echo letters, 13th November 2007: The art of the city

I AGREE with Alan Mullins and Alison Dodd's comments in the ECHO (Nov 6) – large murals of The Beatles are a great idea for 2008.
There are parts of the city that need brightening up with good quality public art, and there is a real desire for Liverpool people to be given the chance to get involved in more projects in their communities.
The exhibition building at the back of the Adelphi would be a prime location as the Adelphi is where the yearly Beatles convention is held. It’s The Beatles that most tourists come here for, give them what they want and they'll keep coming back! Chris Gore, Old Swan

Giant Pudsey mural created for BBC Children in Need

BBC television presenter Christine Bleakley joined forces with Belfast mural artists Danny Devenny and Mark Ervine to create a huge mural of Children in Need’s famous Pudsey Bear in St George's Market in Belfast. Market-goers were given the chance for a small donation to help paint everyone's favourite bear. Danny and Mark who are part of The Liverpool Mural Project were helped by hordes of children, set about the job of painting a 30 foot high mural of the big hearted bear. For six or so hours, many little pairs of hands applied every colour of paint to the huge canvas in the market house.
This is another marvellous example of community art, and helping to raise thousands of pounds for the BBC Children in Need appeal and a fun time was had by everyone who took part. Excellent work by Danny and Mark and all the little helpers and more great preparation for the work TLMP intends to do in Liverpool in 2008. The finished canvas will be hung on the side of BBC Broadcasting House in the week leading up to the Children in Need telethon which takes place on the evening of Friday 16th November.

Echo letters, Tuesday 6th Nov: Call to Beatles artists

AS a lifelong Beatles fan living in Merseyside and someone who regularly takes other fans from all over the world around Liverpool to various Beatles sites, I would love to see large Beatles images on gable walls and I know the millions of expected visitors in 2008 would love them as well. We need more Beatles imagery, so the tourists – many of whom are visiting Liverpool because it’s the home of the Fab Four – keep coming back long after 2008. Liverpool needs to make more out of the fact that the greatest and most influential band ever came from Liverpool. Get the artists who know how to paint quality murals over from Belfast and you’ll have lots of Beatles fans from Liverpool turning up to help out. Alan Mullins, Wirral

Echo letters, Tuesday 6th Nov: Clean up this eyesore

NOT a day goes by when I don’t fail to notice misspelled, idiotic graffiti plastered across the walls of the seemingly vacant and vandal-ravaged exhibition building at the rear of the Adelphi Hotel.
There has been no attempt to clean up this eyesore for many years, judging by the ancient ‘Punk’s not dead’ slogan running along its walls! Rather than leave this building to fester and decay, why doesn’t the council let the likes of the Liverpool muralists have a crack at brightening it up and turning it into something both locals and tourists can enjoy and look upon admiringly, rather than averting their eyes in embarrassment? I’m sure that a stunningly-rendered Beatles’ mural, or a similar image that celebrates our city, our people and our fantastic heritage, would be a massive talking point and a tourist magnet that would be a wonderful way of welcoming people to our city centre. The argument of not being able to grant planning permission doesn’t hold water, either.
When did the original “artists” ask permission for their pidgin-English scrawlings? Yet there is no attempt to clean them up! Alison Dodd, Liverpool 12

Ulster's political party leaders Gerry Adams MP and Dawn Purvis MLA united in support for Mural Project

Though there have been many political changes in Northern Ireland in recent years and two of the leading political parties have declared their steadfast support for The Liverpool Mural Project. The Progressive Unionist Party and Sinn Fein have both contacted TLMP to fully back this significant, historic and exciting arts project that wishes to change the face of Liverpool for the better in 2008.
Dawn Purvis was chosen as PUP's new party leader in January 2007 and became the first woman to lead a unionist party in Northern Ireland. She played a vital role in the peace talks team in 1998.
Gerry Adams has been President of Sinn Féin since 1983, and has been instrumental in the party's peace strategy. He has travelled internationally to advance the peace process particularly in the United States, Britain and South Africa.

Both politicans stand behind the principals of The Liverpool Mural Project and its desire to bring together muralists from both sides of the political divide in Northern Ireland.

The use of wall paintings and drawings is as old as humanity. Neolithic murals were once all the rage in cave and stone dwellings. They were an artistic means of getting across a message when communications were limited. And so it is today. Danny Devenny is a master artist in their design and production. He has been producing wall murals across Belfast and beyond for more years than he or I care to remember. I am confident that he and Mark Ervine will bring to their work with The Liverpool Mural Project the same dedication and commitment, and artistic prowess that has marked their work here. A few months ago I had the pleasure to unveil their reproduction of Picasso’s Guernica on the international wall in West Belfast. This is only one of scores of excellent murals which they have brought to life on the walls of this city. There are many points of connection between Ireland and Liverpool which I am sure will be reflected in the art work. The Liverpool Mural Project is a unique project and it will have two very unique and talented Belfast men helping to mark Liverpool's 2008 European Capital of Culture year.

Gerry Adams MP, Sinn Fein President

I wanted to write and voice my support for The

Liverpool Mural Project. This is a very exciting concept, bringing together Mural Artists from Northern Ireland and our neighbours in Liverpool. This project is interesting on so many different levels. Not only does it bring together mural artists from across the political divide in Northern Ireland, it also reaffirms Belfast and Northern Ireland’s long history with the city of Liverpool and helps to rejuvenate and regenerate areas of disadvantage. Liverpool as a ‘City of Culture’ should be holding such projects as beacons of hope, while there will always be finance and a place available for mainstream art mediums; whenever such an unusual project bringing together those from conflicting cultures and involving real people – it must be supported. I wish you all the best with this project and will help in any way I can.

Yours sincerely Dawn Purvis MLA
Progressive Unionist Party Leader

The Worlds best known Photographer and Historian of Murals sends his message of encouragment.

James Prigoff is an author, photographer and lecturer on the subject of worldwide urban murals. He is one of the most important photographers of aerosol art in the world. Jim has been documenting Street Art around the world for over thirty years. He has amassed one of the most comprehensive slide archives of mural photographs that exists in the world.

James kindly contacted The Liverpool Mural Project to say these kind and encouraging words about our plans for Liverpool in 2008.

Recently I received word of the proposed Beatles' mural project involving artists from Belfast and Liverpool. Danny Devenny is well known to me as an outstanding mural artist whose visual concepts and representations are always exciting to see. The project sounded quite significant on many levels. To my considerable surprise word came today that the project was not being funded as not being "edgy" enough. The mural message and images would be as cutting edge as the artists' and city determined they should be. But that is just the beginning. The project is certain to draw attention on a very extended basis creating an opening for the city to deal with historical imagery that will artistically enhance the city, but more importantly play a role in political education.

Philadelphia, PA, USA started its mural program with very modest local landscape imagery, some tributes to local "heroes" and an effort to paint over graffiti. With a larger vision, under the direction of Jane Golden, today Philadelphia has become the mural capital of the world with over 2700 murals covering a very broad spectrum of ideas, visions and people. It seems to me that Liverpool has a unique opportunity to start an exciting project with imagery that would be recognized anywhere on the planet.

Respectfully, James Prigoff

Author of: Twentieth Century Street Art Historian
Co-Author: Walls of Heritage - Walls of Pride - History of African American Murals
Spraycan Art - (over 200,000 copies sold to date)
Painting the Towns - Murals of California

Echo letters, Tuesday 23rd Oct: Murals a great idea

I TOTALLY agree with Jimmy Whitby (ECHO Letters, Oct 12) that murals would be a great idea for 2008 and that this is true working class art. Yes, there might be lots of expensive events planned for 2008 by the Culture Company, but not everyone in Liverpool can afford to see shows at the Philharmonic or the Empire.
Getting artists to paint large Belfast-style murals all over Liverpool would not only brighten up the place but give the city an identity and also give the people of Liverpool a chance to get involved with a worthwhile project or at least get to see meaningful art on their streets.
If the Irish artists from both the Catholic and Protestant communities working together want to paint the Beatles and they are going to involve Liverpool people, then that's great.
The City of Liverpool will benefit, can only benefit from this, for not only in 2008 but for many years to come. Nigel Corlett, L19

Principal Lecturer at Liverpool John Moore's University, Dr Stuart Borthwick supports Project

Dr Stuart Borthwick, Principal Lecturer, School of Media, Critical and Creative Arts at Liverpool John Moores University clearly understands The Mural Project. In a letter of support received this week Stuart explained why he felt the project should be a part of Liverpool's 2008 culture celebrations.

"The Liverpool Mural Project is important for many reasons.

Firstly, the mural artists Danny Devenny and Mark Ervine are gifted craftsmen. Whilst their previous work was forged in the cauldron of armed conflict, they are now spreading their wings and their skills are flourishing in peacetime. Secondly, for both muralists to decide to work in Liverpool means something significant to Liverpool’s Irish community, those in Liverpool who identify themselves as Unionists, and all points in-between. Thirdly, the project is democratic in nature. Both muralists have suggested that ordinary members of the public will be able to join them in painting murals. Finally, the Liverpool Mural Project is important because it has the potential to say something profound about Liverpool’s history and heritage, and as a result has caught the imagination of that mythical beast, the ordinary scouser."

"I look forward to walking through Liverpool in future years and spotting unique and mesmerising murals that capture the spirit of Liverpool, and which tell their own story. All power to the muralists!"

Liverpool film company supports The Mural Project

Hurricane Films is a Liverpool based film production company established in March 2000. As well it's broadcast films the company has also worked on community based projects, most notably a 'community' feature film in 2006, Under the Mud. The Hurricane ethos is to make films the company is passionate about with people dedicated to getting the best up on the screen.

We're a small Liverpool-based production company, and we just wanted to say we fully support the call to commission your project - hopefully the powers that be will see sense and finally back it. All the best, Roy Boulter

Writer and Arts critic voices his opinion on TLMP

Belfast writer Tom Paulin confirmed his strong support for the Liverpool Mural Project in an email today. Mr Paulin is a well respected literary critic and arts reviewer who is known as much for his appearances on the likes of The Late Show and the Newsnight Review as for his excellent literary talent.

Tom who was born in Leeds but moved to Belfast as a child with his parents fully understands the significance of the mural artists from two different communities in Northern Ireland working together. He had the following to say about The Liverpool Mural Project's plans for Liverpool's 2008 European Cultural Celebrations.

The two traditions - the Orange and the Green - have never come together in this way before. These mural painters are distinctive and gifted artists indeed. Your project has my full support.

'Keep on Keepin' on' says Glen Monaghan, Liverpool

Good luck in taking this project to the next level. I have read with dismay that

this project has been dismissed as"not edgy enough". Unfortunately "EDGY" seems to be the new buzz word amongst the befuddled group who have been given responsibility for OUR year of culture in 2008. If the coming together of people from both sides of the political divide, in what was previously a war zone, to help another community who already fight against non-culture stereotypes is not edgy, What is?? I hope you can manage to pull this off because I guarantee that any future tourists who visit this fine city, will have the Liverpool Murals very near the top of their "must see" list whenever they arrive. Keep on Keepin' on... Glen Monaghan, Liverpool

Echo Letters, Friday 12th Oct: The Bigger Picture

LET’S hope when the proposed murals get done that the people of Liverpool who are lucky enough to learn from these Irish artists, go on to do more in their own communities. I'd love to see a big 'Justice for the Hillsborough 96' in Anfield, maybe if there's any paint left they could sort that out. I've e-mailed The Liverpool Mural Project and told them I'd love to be involved, The murals in Belfast represent the working class in Belfast from both communities. The murals they are hopefully going to produce here are going to involve the working class of Liverpool and inspire and brighten up all parts of Liverpool, not just the city centre.
Liverpool gets a chance to get a brilliant, historic project like this and all the associated media attention but risks losing it by not offering any funding. It is unbelievable. Jimmy Whitby, Old Swan

Belfast Screenwriter and Director supports TLMP

Pearse Elliott was born and raised in West Belfast, and his writing strongly reflects his community. He came to prominence in 1995 when he won the BBC Young Playwrights' Festival Award. In 2003 he completed Pulling Moves, a groundbreaking, ten-part comedy series, and the first of its kind to be set in Northern Ireland. Elliot has travelled extensively and lived for a number of years in the USA. His writing includes radio, television drama and Cinema, His screenwriting includes Man About Dog, Shrooms, and The Mighty Celt which he also directed and starring Gillian Anderson (X-Files) and Robert Carlyle (Trainspotting, The Full Monty)

"Murals are reflective of history and the people's narrative, this should be a no brainer, but somehow it isn't - why?"

Liverpool singer/songwriter backs The Mural Project

Imagine if Woody Guthrie joined The Jam. That is the sound of The Alun Parry Band. Referred to by the Liverpool Echo as "a Merseyside folk God", Alun Parry is one of Liverpool’s foremost acoustic based performers and songwriters. His packed gigs are described as the number one night out in Liverpool, and his album Corridors of Stone received widespread critical acclaim. BBC Radio’s Folkscene, Britain’s longest running folk music radio show, recently profiled Alun Parry’s work and music in a one hour special. http://www.parrysongs.co.uk/

"I hope this project succeeds. it would be a great addition to 2008 that would add lots to Liverpool life. My view is that this would be a real favourite amongst Liverpool people. and if the Liverpool culture company aren't in favour, I'd take that as a compliment! Bestests, Al 8-)"

Echo Letters, 5th Oct: More to city than Beatles

I MUST reply to the letter headed ‘Murals are a Fab idea’ (ECHO, Sept. 29).
I must point out to Mr Carr and the Liverpool Mural Project that Liverpool is 800 years old and the Beatles have influenced one area of popular culture across a relatively short period.
Could I suggest to the culture company and Mural Project that, if they want to decorate the city for 2008, they produce informal and educational murals not only of interest to tourists but local people and schoolchildren.
Before Liverpool is turned into some sort of Beatles Disneyland, I propose we remember its proud history in literature, sport, cinema, art, theatre, tele- vision, transport, the list is endless.
I also suggest we have a mural that acknowledges, accepts and apologises for the city’s involvement in the slave trade, while another celebrates the work of dockers and shipping merchants, whose endeavour and foresight built the foundations for the city to grow and thrive. Mr A J Riley, Prescot

Minister for Culture looks forward to TLMP success

Dear Liverpool Mural Project

I was interested to read about your project and specifically the way it will celebrate Liverpool and bring communities together. Good public art transforms our environment, stimulates debate, challenges perceptions and has an impact on everyone who encounters it. I am supportive of all projects that work with communities to bring lasting benefits and I look forward to following the succesful development of the Liverpool Mural Project.

Margaret Hodge, Minister for Culture

Echo Letters, 29th Sept: Murals are a Fab idea

AFTER the appointment of Phil Redmond to the Capital of Culture organisation, perhaps now, given his initial statement of intent, the city will see community level concepts such as the mural project given due attention. From what I gather, this project is an attempt to bring colourful and distinctive Beatles images to walls dotted around the city streets. There is perhaps no greater expression of Liverpool's cultural impact and proud history (to myself and thousands of others who packed out the bars despite the cancellation of the outdoor Mathew Street festival performances) than celebrating the "four lads who shook the world". If Redmond and the Culture Board are to appease a public weary of disappointment, misinformation and bureaucratic ineptitude, the murals seem ideal to win hearts and minds.
I am sure that the people of the city and its image need a real lift. Perhaps giving local initiatives such as the above the time, acknowledgement and support they need would be a real boost in the run-up to 2008. Cliff Carr, Netherton

From Abbey Road to the Falls Road with the LMP

The weekend visit to Belfast by The Liverpool Mural Project delegation was a resounding success indeed. The trip to Belfast by TLMP started with an amazing piece of news in a phone call on the way to John Lennon Airport, involving a major Liverpool housing association and the real promise of working together in 2008. After arriving at Belfast International airport on Friday lunchtime and instead of the original plan to all go and have a big real 'Ulster fry' breakfast, the LMP delegation went straight to work and met up with Belfast community development worker Sean Brennan and were taken straight to the Falls Road for a photo shoot for The Irish News. The TLMP co-founders Greg Brennan and Peter Morrison along with Belfast mural artists Danny Devenny and Mark Ervine were asked to recreate the famous Beatles Abbey Road picture on a busy crossing at the heart of the Falls Road.

The Irish News photographer stopped bus, taxi and car drivers along the famous busy road in order to get his front page photo under the heading, “From Abbey Road to the Falls Road, muralists come together.” A throng of tourists gathered bemused at the sudden activity, taking place not far from the famous International Wall, which attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year to the city.

The rest of the LMP's visit was spent in meetings and interviews whilst putting more touches to the forthcoming documentary film. Young filmmaker Tom Borso who is editing the LMP documentary had a busy few days setting up and filming interviews with the likes of Professor Bill Rolston, Danny and Mark the Belfast artists. He also managed to interview Sean Brennan who is well respected in the world of cross community development and works for the De Bono Organisation in Northern Ireland.

So a very successful and enjoyable weekend for all involved in TLMP, and the delegation all got their Belfast 'Belly Buster' breakfast eventually.

TLMP Delegation jets off to more N.Ireland meetings

A delegation from TLMP is jetting off to Belfast this weekend on a whistle stop tour of the city to attend meetings with The Arts Council and various media groups, including interviews for several Newspapers, Radio and Community TV. Greg Brennan explained the hard work that goes into such an historic and exciting project,

"We're going to be busy getting to meet everyone who wants to meet us, it gives us the chance to further promote the project and to meet up again with the artists and keep everyone involved over there up to date with the developments in Liverpool. This trip isn't just about drinking"

Another letter of support in The Liverpool Echo

Scandalous! if the Liverpool Mural Project, the first collaboration anywhere between artists from both communities in N.Ireland working together and involving Liverpool community arts groups doesn't get funded now. If this opportunity gets missed and something similar ends up being done in another UK city, then the 'culture club' will of badly let the people of Liverpool down. J.Whitby, Old Swan

Liverpool City Councillor writes to Phil Redmond

Liverpool City Councillor, Louise Baldock, (Kensington and Fairfield) is really excited about the possibility of getting a mural done in the part of Liverpool she represents, so much so that she’s wrote to Phil Redmond at The Liverpool Culture Company saying how much she is impressed by The Liverpool Mural Project. Louise kindly sent us a copy of her letter and told us she will continue to promote the project for 2008, and that she has in her ward several community art groups who would jump at the chance to be involved with TLMP.

Dear Phil,

I am very impressed with The Liverpool Mural Project which is a unique project which is aiming to bring the skills and experience of mural artists from all communities of Belfast, working together and with community groups in Liverpool.

As you will know, their objective is to create distinctive non-political murals for our Capital of Culture year.

The project has been supported and welcomed by many members of the Liverpool, Irish and Northern Irish creative and artistic community; Ken Loach, John Fay, Professor Marianne Elliott - Director of Institute of Irish Studies, Ian Jackson - The Liverpool Art and Culture Blog, Robert Ballagh, Professor Phil Scraton, Jimmy McGovern, Danny Morrison, Terry George, Peter Sheridan, Phil Hayes of the Picket, Christy Moore and many more. It has also been the subject of many supportive letters in local newspapers.

I understand that the Culture Board have so far rejected the project for inclusion in the 08 programme on the grounds that it is "not edgy enough".

However given that you have said you will re-examine rejected suggestions in an effort for 08 to reach out to more ordinary local Liverpool people and given the big support this idea has, I hope you will reconsider.

Best wishes Louise Baldock, Labour Councillor for Kensington and Fairfield (and I would love to see a mural here!)

Louise obviously wants to involve the ordinary people she represents in their city’s celebrations and recognises the many benefits of The Liverpool Mural Project can provide both the city of Liverpool and the regeneration of Kensington, whose residents she describes as, 'the proudest people in Liverpool'. So thanks again Louise for your support, and next time your in B&Q get yourself a decent paint brush, and dig out an old pair of jeans!

Croxteth Councillor, Rose Bailey backs Mural Project

Another Liverpool City Councillor, Rose Bailey (Croxteth) backs The Liverpool Mural Project,

"I would like to add my support too. Fantastic street artwork to hide the many 'grot spots' in our communities across the city not just city centre has to be a plus for the residents. Luvly and keep up the pressure on the decision makers who to date have not supported groundbreaking projects. Good Luck!"

We really need to make this happen!, says Liverpool City Councillor, Louise Baldock

Liverpool City Councillor Louise Baldock, (Kensington and Fairfield) has welcomed the Liverpool Mural Project. Cllr Baldock contacted TLMP and told us that Labour members of the Culture Select Committee all support the project and are doing what they can to promote this exciting project. They will be raising this in council and writing to the great and the good urging them to embrace it. She went on to say that Phil Redmond's announcement that he wants to re-engage with rejected projects and with organisations that want to support 08 is the ideal opportunity to get TLMP on the agenda.

"There are lots of parts of the city that are run down and where we are making great efforts to regenerate. Kensington, which I represent, is a prime example. Kensington people are the proudest people in the whole of Liverpool. To think that a neglected wall or gable end could be used for a world-famous, eye-catching mural, bringing the artistic world to celebrate this area would be marvellous. But there could be murals all over the city, not just here. Liverpool communities could themselves spearhead community art in the way that the Tate and the Walker have done for more traditional and establishment artists. The Liverpool Mural Project is everything that the 08 programme ought to be about. It is the epitomy of Liverpool culture and I urge everyone in the city to get behind it. We really need to make this happen"

The Legendary award winning British Film-maker Ken Loach supports The Liverpool Mural Project

Ken Loach is without doubt Britain’s foremost political filmmaker and is renowned for his reverent depictions of the politics of everyday life. Avoiding Hollywood's siren call, the British director has a reputation, as one of the film industry's more respected and idealistic figures. Loach has had a long and distinguished career directing films and documentaries, from Cathy Come Home and Kes in the sixties to Land and Freedom and My Name is Joe in recent years.

"I would like to show my support for your campaign to have your murals included in Liverpool’s Capital of Culture programme. It is a great sign of hope that two artists from such opposing backgrounds are working together which should be welcomed and endorsed by Liverpool, with its strong connections to Ireland. And the designs look brilliant!"

.

In December 2003, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Birmingham. Oxford University awarded him an Honorary Doctor of Civil Law degree in June 2005. He is also an honorary fellow of St Peter's College. In May 2006, he was awarded the BAFTA Fellowship at the BAFTA TV Awards. Also in May 2006, Loach won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival for his film The Wind That Shakes the Barley.

Ken Loach lives with his family in Bath, where he is a supporter of and shareholder in Bath City F.C.

Another letter of support in Friday's Liverpool Echo

I Think that the proposed Liverpool Mural Project is a great idea! That's probably the reason why the 'Culture Club' rejected it. The idea of painting 12 huge murals over plain city walls would give tourists another 12 'photo prints' throughout the city. I personally think the project was considered too 'low brow' for the 'Culture Club' but, for a simple pleb like me, it is just the type of project which will be enjoyed by many other Merseysiders. Joe Kelsall, L31

Oscar-winner Tim Robbins with TLMP Belfast artists

Oscar-winner Tim Robbins with Danny Devenny and Mark Ervine in Belfast being presented with a framed copy of the Bombing of Guernica mural. During filming in Belfast Tim Robbins read ‘The Guardian’ feature on The Liverpool Mural Project and afterwards asked to go on a tour of West Belfast murals during which he photographed the works of Danny and Mark.

Finbar Rock an Evertonian from Belfast supports The Mural Project
"Things looking good with a slimmed down committee and Phil Redmond on board, I look forward to visiting the murals on one of my trips to Goodison Park in 2008. Mc Faddy to start on Saturday"

Guardian Newspaper Reports on Culture Changes

After our recent report on the changing faces of the Culture Company, today’s Guardian ran with a report outlining the new changes that have occurred and an interview with well respected TV Producer, Phil Redmond. Mr Redmond has been chosen as the new deputy chairman of the Liverpool Culture Company board, which has been slimmed down from 25 members to only six. He will lead the artistic side of the cultural celebrations, which begins next year, and he will work with arts organisations and encourage community participation.

Mr Redmond went on to explain that he hoped to give the programme more of an 'edge' by examining the city's Irish heritage and providing a "cultural clearing project", where arts groups who made submissions for 2008 and felt they were ignored can resubmit their ideas. He also spoke of the open culture initiative, which will encourage people to engage in activities: "I want people to know they don't have to have culture done to them - they can take part."

Could it be that Mr Redmond had recently read Duncan Campbell’s article in The Guardian? Or could it be that he’s been keeping up to date with the Liverpool Mural Project on this website?

Surely now the Culture Company must see how valuable the Liverpool Mural Project can be to not only them but more importantly to the city of Liverpool in 2008. The very fact that we have Belfast artists from two communities willing to grasp hold of the current peace process in Northern Ireland by working together. This along with their desire to bring years of artistic talent and experience to the people of Liverpool in order to help produce excellent pieces of public art in and around the city, surely common sense must prevail?

To read the Guardian's article in full click on the following link:

http://arts.guardian.co.uk/art/news/story/0,,2168056,00.html

Another desperate reshuffle at the Culture Company

The Liverpool Culture Company attempts a clean sweep of the ineptitude that has cursed the build up to the 2008 celebrations. After lots of public infighting local media has confirmed that TV Producer Phil Redmond will now spearhead the artistic side of the 12 month cultural period. The board running Liverpool’s showpiece capital of Culture year met on Tuesday and agreed most of its members would stand down. Bryan Gray, chairman of the Northwest Regional Development Agency, will chair the new board. It has been also reported that the members of the culture company have not ruled out reallocating money or finding cash to fund changes in the programme.

Mr Gray said: “There will be tight control of the budget, but if there are good ideas we'll look at them as well.”

We at the Liverpool Mural Project would welcome a positive response from the new board running the Culture Company towards our plans for Liverpool in 2008. Like Jimmy McGovern said about our project in The Guardian recently, "God knows the Culture Company needs a winner or two right now."

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To read the complete article from The Liverpool Echo website, click on the link below:

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http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/capitalofculture/news/tm_headline=phil-redmond-to-take-capital-of-culture-hot-seat&method=full&objectid=19777924&siteid=50061-name_page.html

Award winning author supports The Mural Project

Timothy O’Grady is the author of two works of non-fiction,

Curious Journey: An Oral History of Ireland’s Unfinished Revolution (1982, with Kenneth Griffith) and On Golf (2003), and three novels, Motherland (l989), I Could Read the Sky (l997, with photographs by Steve Pyke) and Light (2004). Editions of his books have appeared in Germany, Holland and France, as well as the English-speaking world. Further editions are planned in Japan, Korea, Spain and Poland. Motherland won the David Higham Award for the best first novel of the year in Britain and I Could Read the Sky won the Encore Award for the best second novel.

"The first time I was in Belfast I was picked up at the rail station, driven past the town hall and the Linenhall Library and various other features of the centre of the city, and when we got to the bottom of the Falls Road my guide said, And this is where the assault on the senses begins. It was the year after the hunger strikes. Surveillance masts and towers rose into the gray sky. Troops with guns accompanied policemen pretending they were out for a stroll. Saracens charged up the road. It seemed a kind of dream. But flaming into colour and making something glorious out of this battleground were the murals - pictures of Nelson Mandela, an American Indian, Bobby Sands, revolutionary women from all over the world. They lifted the whole scene into something that transcended bitterness and reached towards the international and the inspirational. This was urban art made not out of a town hall project but from an energy that came from the streets and arrived at an individual muralist. The Shankill too had its murals, some celebratory, some defiant, some macabre. War too was waged with paint."

Timothy O'Grady was born in the USA and has lived in Ireland and Spain, he currently lives in London.

"That two Belfast muralists, one a republican and the other a loyalist, now propose to work together is one of the most fascinating details of the slow movement into peace, conciliation and progress. I think it’s a wonderful thing to support."

Photo credit Renate Lardner

The Legendary Irish folk singer songwriter Christy Moore adds his support for Liverpool Mural Project

One of Ireland's most outstanding singer songwriters, the legendary Christy Moore contacted TLMP to add his support. As vocalist and chief songwriter of Planxty and folk supergroup Moving Hearts, Christy has written and gathered a vast repertoire of songs and delivered them appropriately into the new millennium.

As a solo singer-songwriter, he has continued to add elements of rock and popular music to his well-crafted, tradition-based tunes, and has been a major inspiration to such modern Irish artists as U2, Sinead O'Connor, Damien Dempsey and The Pogues.

“I wish to add my support. I will be playing at the Liverpool Philharmonic as part of Liverpool being European City of Culture next year and I would love to visit Danny and Mark's murals should they be given the go ahead .....Ride On....
Christy Moore, Ireland”

Support Comes Thick And Fast For Mural Project

The depth of support for the Liverpool Mural Project increases from all quarters. The support ranges from the local and international media, from playwrights to novelists, film producers and directors to musicians and business entrepreneurs and by no means last politician's. The feeling of goodwill and support towards our project continues to steadily increase with every passing day.

The Liverpool Echo has recently published a further letter of support in its daily letters page from a local resident. To read this excellent letter in full from one of the Echo's many readers please click on the link below:-

Cultural Shame

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/views/echo-letters/2007/08/20/your-letters-20th-august-2007-100252-19661932/

Liverpool's top music venue backs The Mural Project

Philip Hayes founded the music venue The Picket in the 1980's. The Picket established itself as one of the best places for emerging talent in the city featuring early performances by Cast, The La's, The Farm, Happy Mondays, & Space. Many famous musicians donated equipment to support the Picket including Yoko Ono, Elvis Costello, Paul McCartney, Oasis, Travis and Joe Strummer of the Clash & Pete Townshend of The Who. The Venue closed at its premises in Liverpool’s Hardman Street in 2004.
After a public campaign to rescue the venue -see www.savethepicket.com -it re-opened in the Independent cultural sector of Liverpool in Jordan Street. The opening event saw the legendary Liverpool Art School band Deaf School reform and appear to a sell out audience on 27th May 2006.
Since opening the Venue has presented a diverse programme including Elvis Costello and Allen Toussaint, John Peel Memorial Concert, Carnival Samba performances, Dry Bar gigs for Liverpool's young musicians and bands, and Dance music nights from Circus and Chibuku.

"Liverpool and Belfast share so many similar experiences and have so many connections. It would be great to see a series of murals in Liverpool painted by Danny Devenny and Mark Ervine, it would represent a lasting legacy of both the Irish peace process, and the deep bond between the two cities. I think there'd be a real positive response from people in Liverpool to see them going up on walls across the city."

For further information and details of forthcoming events at www.myspace.com/picketliverpool

More support for Liverpool Mural Project from one of Ireland’s major contemporary playwrights

Peter Sheridan is one of Ireland's major contemporary playwrights, as well as a screenwriter, actor, and film director. His short film The Breakfast won several European Awards and his first feature film script Borstal Boy was released in 2000. He received the Rooney Prize for Literature in 1977 and was Writer-in-Residence at The Abbey Theatre in 1980. Forty Four, Peter’s memoir about his Dublin childhood became a best seller.

“What a brilliant proposal! I totally support you and wish you the best of luck!”

Together with his brother, Oscar-winning filmmaker Jim Sheridan, Peter Sheridan helped found the Project Arts Centre, Dublin's pre-eminent avant-garde theatre. Peter Sheridan's plays have also been performed at other leading theatres, including London's Royal Court Theatre and Dublin's Abbey Theatre.

The Guardian Newspaper Provides Full Page Feature On TLMP and the talented artists involved

The Guardian's very own Duncan Campbell writes in today’s Art section of the newspaper about Belfast artists coming to Liverpool. The full page spread provides an excellent testament to the aspirations of the Liverpool Mural Project. It re-confirms the willingness of the artists working with our project to break away from the perceptions people have of Belfast artists in only wanting to create political murals. The interview gives an excellent account of the significance of both Danny and Mark working together. It further highlights their commitment to coming to Liverpool and passing on their un-doubtable knowledge and expertise to the people of Liverpool.

The article has also quoted Jimmy McGovern who has previously written to us about his enthusiastic support for our project and the planned murals for 2008. Mr Campbell ends his report with a quote from the Liverpool Culture Company. He like any good journalist had contacted the Liverpool Culture Company to ask why the project had been dismissed as "not edgy enough”. They have reiterated their previous stance in confirming that they had over 150 proposals for 2008. However, this time they have remarkabley confirmed, “ it was inevitable that some great ideas wouldn’t get through,” they said. Can we now assume that the avalanche of publicity both here and in Northern Ireland has made some difference? With the increasing letters and emails of support from prominent people ranging from University lecturers to politicians and writers and playwrights to Hollywood film directors it must be asked, has the eyes of the Culture Company been opened to what an opportunity they in fact have on their very own doorstep?

To Read The Guardians report in full click on the following link: -

http://arts.guardian.co.uk/art/news/story/0,,2159739,00.html

Top Screenwriter and Director voices strong support

Terry George is a Belfast born screenwriter and director, who divides his time between Ireland and New York. His films include The Boxer, Some Mother’s Son, In the Name of the Father, Hotel Rwanda, Hart’s War and A Bright Shining Lie. Terry has directed the highly anticipated film Reservation Road, due for release in November 2007.

"I want to voice my strong support for The Liverpool Mural Project. Jim Sheridan and I employed the aritsit Danny Devenny and his colleagues in our films In the Name of the Father (part of which we shot in Liverpool) Some mother's Son, and The Boxer. His work enlivened and enriched all of these projects.Wall murals are true working class art from artists who find their canvas wherever they can."

Along with Van Morrison, Terry George was honoured at the second annual ‘Oscar Wilde – Honoring Irish Writing in Film’ awards held in Los Angeles in February 2007.

"I'll wager a bet that were John Lennon alive today, his name and support would be on your website. Imagine!
You have my strong support."

Leading Irish Writer and Playwright supports TLMP

Danny Morrison, who is a well respected author, journalist and playwright supports The Liverpool Mural Project. He has written eight books to date and has written and reviewed for The Irish Times, The Observer, The Guardian, Washington Post and Boston Globe. His book ‘The Wrong Man’ has been successfully adapted as a stage play which was showcased both in London and Ireland in 2005.

“It is incredible that this ingenious project is not being officially supported by The Liverpool Culture Company (LCC). I certainly hope it changes its mind and realises the potential for murals as free public art to bring pleasure to ordinary people as well as memorialising on their home patch the iconic sons of Liverpool – the greatest band that ever was, The Beatles. With a little help from our friends, we can work it out. And the message to the LCC – All You Need is Love!”

Danny Morrison knows all about successful arts events as Chair of The West Belfast Community Festival, known in Gaelic as Féile an Phobail (The People’s Festival) The festival was established in 1988 to counter the negative image generated by The Troubles. It is the largest community led arts festival in Europe, featuring a line-up of Internationally renowned acts, exhibitions, discussions and debates, library events, drama, Féile FM radio station, community events, a carnival parade, an International food fair, sport, tours and walks.

Jimmy McGovern backs The Liverpool Mural Project

Jimmy McGovern, one of the most accomplished and most sought after screenwriters in British Film and Television backs The Liverpool Mural Project.

“Count me in as one of your supporters”

McGovern is a BAFTA award-winner from Liverpool. He is particularly known for writing powerful and thought provoking dramas often based around hard hitting social issues or controversial real life events.

The critically-acclaimed writer of Cracker, the Lakes, Hillsborough, Sunday and award winning films Priest and Liam took time out of a busy schedule to offer TLMP his support.

“God knows The Liverpool Culture Company needs a winner or two right now, so when something as inspired as The Liverpool Mural Project comes along you’d expect the Company to grab it with both hands. That it hasn’t done so is unbelievable”

Tourists drawn to Belfast's International Wall Murals

Belfast's International Wall on The Falls Road is currently attracting huge crowds of tourists due to two spectacular new murals. Belfast artists Danny Devenny, Mikey Doherty and Mark Ervine who are part of The Liverpool Mural Project have once again shown the world the standard and quality of work that they can produce within this artistic medium.

One of the murals in question is the artists own interpretation of Picasso's famous Guernica painting. The original of which depicts the aftermath of the German bombing of the Basque village of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War in 1937. The artists were recently invited to view the original Picasso painting, which hangs in the Reina Sofia gallery in Madrid before undertaking work on their own version in Belfast.

In an interview with Allison Morris for The Irish News, Mr Devenny and Mr Ervine said it was inspiring to see Picasso's 'Guernica' and that gave them a grasp for what they were taking on.

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"We have both believed in this project from the start and the positive reaction we have been getting from local people and tourists, has helped to reinforce that." Danny Devenny

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"What was a complex and disturbing portrayal of war has since become a symbol of peace, something we can fully relate to in Northern Ireland." Mark Ervine

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The second Mural is an excellent tribute to the volunteers of the International Brigades who went to fight against Fascism in the Spanish Civil War between 1936 - 1939.

Speaking at the official unvieling, West Belfast MP, Gerry Adams described the murals as eloquent, moving, inspirational pieces of political art.

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"The representation of Picasso s Guernica reproduced here is a potent reminder of the savagery of war and the obscenity of fascism. Everyone involved in this piece of work are to be commended for one of the most potent political murals to be produced in a long time."

The TLMP is extremely privileged and excited to have these artists on board, and these latest murals once again show the kind of quality on offer to Liverpool during it’s 2008 Celebrations.

Professor and Author Phil Scraton of Queens University Belfast, backs Liverpool Mural Project

Respected Queen's University Professor Phil Scraton author of the acclaimed book
'Hillsborough: The Truth' wrote to TLMP confirming his full backing and support for what we plan to do in Liverpool in the coming year.

“I am surprised and dismayed that the Liverpool Culture Company has declined financial support for The Liverpool Mural Project in anticipation of the '08 celebrations.

"As a Liverpudlian, now living and working in Belfast, I am deeply committed to developing and consolidating the strong historical and contemporary links between the two cities. One of the great successes of both cities is the strength and resilience demonstrated by our working class people in overcoming adversity, political and economic, in building cross-community alliances aimed at embracing diversity rather than allowing its worst excesses to destroy our lives. Both cities have emerged from economic marginalisation and inter-community conflict and experiencing the struggles of transition".

"On the 4 August 2007, I was with some of the Belfast artists who are part of The Liverpool Mural Project along with other helpers as they reproduced Picasso's Guernica on the world famous International Wall. Alongside, they were painting another mural on the International Brigades defiance of fascism in the Spanish Civil War. The power of murals to represent the mood and emotions of a community is more than symbolic.”

"It is my sincere conviction that the The Liverpool Mural Project, should it come to fruition, would make an outstanding contribution to the '08 celebrations. If the Project had been put forward in Berlin, Paris, Barcelona, San Francisco, Athens and so on - the list is endless - I am convinced it would have received support. I urge the Culture Company to think again".

Professor Phil Scraton
Author of 'Hillsborough: The Truth'.