National Gallery and European counterparts support urgent calls to save Oldham Mural

20 December 2021

David Glasser, Chair of Ben Uri said:


"I believe the mural in question has three important distinctive features which the Diocese of Salford, the Church of England and local government equally have non-negotiable obligations to recognise and respond positively to save and restore this important part of the immigrant contribution to our society.
The mural itself is a rare and extraordinary example of its kind which necessitates protection. The artist is a Hungarian immigrant whose presence in this country and the North West particularly has enriched his new home communities.
To allow its decay and demise does damage to both the concept of holiness and to social integration as it shows insufficient regard for the immigrant contribution the communities you serve and to British art which is the focus of the Ben Uri Research Unit - see buru.org.uk"