Manchester based HMG Paints recently supplied a myriad of coloured masonry paints to a local initiative supporting the homeless in Manchester. Bringing a large selection of homeless charities and supporting companies together in the creation of a mural located on Ducie Street, Manchester, and now the results have been unveiled.
The mural, aptly named "The Doodle on Ducie Street," has been created to launch the International Arts and Homelessness Summit & Festival in November which aims to explore and celebrate the role of the arts in tackling homelessness around the world.
Starting with a planning and preparation day at Mustard Tree, Manchester, the project was completed within a week using HMG Paints water-based masonry paint organised by Laing O'Rourke who supported the funding of the project alongside Human Appeal. "HMG were delighted to be called upon for involvement in this local project. The mural looks fantastic and portrays a really powerful message, creating conversation ahead of the Arts and Homelessness Summit" Said Gracienne Ikin, Marketing and Communications Executive, HMG Paints Ltd.
Unveiled on the 2nd of October the mural was created by internationally renowned New York activist and graffiti artist Joel Bergner together with two local artists and over 30 people who have experienced or currently experience homelessness. "We began this journey 3 years ago and with the support from the community, supporting organisations and companies, large projects like these are possible. Most importantly, the participants have created a powerful message through the art on the mural. I think it represents that people who have been homeless have so much to give and contribute to the community" said street artist and activist Joel.
Organised by With One Voice, the international arts and homeless movement founded by Streetwise Opera that aims to strengthen the sector through exchanges in practice and policy, there was an appeal for artists launched, resulting in an astounding amount of charities supporting homelessness in Manchester coming forward and getting involved. "Choosing art as our voice is for many reasons, it's about personal and societal regeneration, it's about telling a different story about homelessness, and giving a voice to people who are or have been homeless to say what they want to say to the public." said With One Voice Director & Streetwise Opera Artistic Director, Matt Peacock.
Talking about how positive his experience working on the project has been, Ben who has previously been homeless himself and now works at The Men's Room Manchester, who work with people with various issues from homelessness to crime, said "I personally think the way it has united all of the organisations that are out there to help the people of Manchester, it's been an amazing thing and brought out their creativity. The mural itself demonstrates the struggle homeless people face moving from the dark side of living on the streets, to the hope of the future."
The International Arts and Homelessness Festival runs from 12th-18th November and is free to attend with a ticket. 50% of delegate tickets will be available free to people who are or have been homeless.