Sir Alex Ferguson mural unveiled in Govan
The artwork, on Uist Street, depicts the Glasgow-born manager alongside four women working as munition workers during World War II.
Last updated 3rd Dec 2021
A colourful mural featuring legendary football manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been unveiled in Govan.
The artwork, on Uist Street, depicts the Glasgow-born manager alongside four women working as munition workers during World War II.
Frank and Mandy Carty – of Artisan Artworks – told Clyde 1 News it took them three days to paint.
“I’m Govan-born,” Frank said. “I’ve always enjoyed any time we’ve been working here.
“Everybody has been wonderful here on the street, people have been bringing us cups of coffee, and just being so nice.
“They’ve been making us feel really welcome and they’re being super positive about something that is a really positive thing for the community.”
They were commissioned by Elderpark Housing Estates and it forms part of a wider project by Yardworks Govan – part of SWG3 – to bring more street art to communities in Glasgow.
People in the district were consulted on who and what they would like to see on the mural through a series of workshops.
“The response from the community has been truly brilliant,” project co-ordinator Laura Frood said.
“We have been delighted to support this mural in partnership with Elderpark Housing.
“The work depicts faces of Govan, the clearly identifiable Sir Alex Ferguson and an image of four women in the munitions factory inspired by a photo kindly donated by Jack Currie, a former Govanite who now lives in the US.”
The mural marks Sir Alex’s bond with the area, having grown up in a tenement on Govan Road, and beginning his football career at Harmony Row Boys’ club.
It also highlights the role Govan women played in World War II often working in dangerous conditions in munition factories.
Elderpark Housing Estates Co-ordinator Jim Fraser said: “This remarkable mural sums up not just the proud past of Govan but sends an optimistic message about a forward-looking community with a bright future.
“And if anyone was to be featured as an icon of our community it would have to be one of our own Sir Alex Ferguson whose track record as a football manager is unparalleled.
“This outstanding artwork which Frank and Mandy have painted has transformed – as art often does – a shop front into an eye catching addition to the community.
“We are delighted with how it has turned out and … it has become a talking point among local people.
“This public art reflects Elderpark Housing’s desire to encourage local artists and ensure as many people as possible enjoy art right on their doorstep.”
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