The Lowry Effect: Rejuvenating Salford and Manchester Through Art
Salford Quays stands as a vibrant testament to cultural regeneration, housing iconic landmarks such as the Imperial War Museum North, BBC Studios, and the Lowry arts complex. This area, once a neglected dockland, has been transformed into a bustling creative and media hub, largely inspired by the legacy of the renowned artist LS Lowry. A tour of his old haunts and new shrines reveals the profound impact of his work on the region's revival.
Rediscovering Lowry's Artistic Roots in Manchester
Many remember LS Lowry through prints like the one my nan had in her downstairs loo, depicting lively street scenes with matchstick figures and industrial backdrops. These works resonate because they capture everyday life in a relatable way, unlike more abstract or classical art. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of his passing, I embarked on a Lowry-themed journey in Manchester, starting at the Manchester Art Gallery on Mosley Street. Here, his paintings hang alongside those of his mentor, French impressionist Pierre Adolphe Valette, showcasing a shared human experience that goes beyond mere technique. Critics may dismiss Lowry's style, but his art speaks volumes about community and resilience.
Exploring Lowry's Personal Haunts and Statues
As rain poured down, I sought refuge in Sam's Chop House, a historic pub-restaurant dating back to 1868, which was a favourite bolthole for Lowry. A bronze statue of the artist still sits at the bar, offering a tangible connection to his past. Leaning on it for a pint, I reflected on his humble presence, even as I struggled to fit him into a selfie frame. Crossing the River Irwell into Salford, I discovered The Lowry hotel, initially owned by Sir Rocco Forte, whose father was a Lowry enthusiast. In the gym, listening to the Smiths, I pondered Lowry's gentle strength in sticking to his everyday scenes amidst London's art elite calling for more elevated themes.
A Guided Tour Through Lowry's Life and Legacy
John Consterdine, a local legend, guided me in an electric black cab on a tour focused on Lowry. We began at Southern Cemetery, where Lowry rests since 1976, marked by a modest stone cross and paintbrushes, sharing the spot with his overbearing mother. Next, we visited Victoria Park, where Lowry grew up at 14 Pine Grove, before his family's forced move to Pendlebury due to financial hardship. This relocation, though a fall from grace, inspired Lowry to find his muse in Manchester's industrial landscape, leading to the down-to-earth scenes he became famous for. Notably, his homes remain unmarked, a subtlety that likely aligns with his refusal of honours, including a knighthood in 1968.
The Transformation of Salford Quays into a Creative Hub
After a stop at Peel Park, which Lowry painted multiple times, we arrived at Salford Quays. Once a bustling dockland that fell into decay after the cotton market collapse, the area entered a long depression. However, the Lowry arts centre, conceived in the late 1980s and opened in 2000, sparked a remarkable revival. This complex triggered a chain reaction, attracting the Imperial War Museum North, BBC's move to MediaCityUK, and later ITV and Coronation Street. Today, Salford Quays thrives as a tourist, retail, residential, and leisure hub, with the Lowry at its heart, housing an extensive collection of his paintings acquired by the local council.
Immersive Experiences and Iconic Artworks at the Lowry
At the Lowry, I experienced Lowry 360, an immersive display that animates his artwork across walls and surfaces, brought to life by a voiceover from Sophie Willan. This innovative approach allows the paintings to expand into full worlds, offering a dynamic perspective on his work. Among the highlights is Going to the Match (1953), a famous piece featuring matchstick men heading to a Bolton Wanderers game. Its journey is notable: initially on loan from the Professional Footballers' Association, it faced auction until Andrew Law, a hedge fund CEO, funded its acquisition for £7.8 million, ensuring it remains on display.
Lowry's Diverse Artistic Range and Lasting Influence
Contrary to popular belief, Lowry was no one-trick pony. The collection at the Lowry showcases a wide range of subjects, from mills and streets to churches and seaside scenes, proving his versatility. To cap off the trip, I visited Old Trafford for a Manchester United match, then ascended Hotel Football for a panoramic view of Salford and Manchester's skyline. Though chimneys have given way to skyscrapers like those in New Jackson and MediaCity, I imagined Lowry capturing this modern scene with his characteristic touch, perhaps adding window cleaners to symbolise resilience and new perspectives.
This exploration underscores how Lowry's legacy continues to shape and inspire the regeneration of Salford and Manchester, blending art with urban renewal in a truly transformative way.
