Street artists pay tribute to Manchester’s defiant spirit

Just over a week since the Manchester bomb attack claimed the lives of 22 people, the city continues to respond with messages of love and defiance in public spaces.

Windows, walls and billboards remain covered in “I Love MCR” signs. And in Stevenson Square in the Northern Quarter, street artists are using The Outhouse graffiti project as a focal point for expressions of solidarity.

Much of the work features depictions of bees – the symbol of Manchester’s industrious, tenacious workers, one included in the city’s crest of arms.

@qubekmanchester ..Stevenson Square.. #westandtogether #urbanart #streetart #outhousemcr #wearemanchester

A post shared by OUT HOUSE (@outhousemcr) on May 30, 2017 at 6:04am PDT

“We don’t want to turn it into a memorial; we just want to do something for the people of Manchester and show some love for the city really,” said artist Jay Sharples.

Tattoo shops across the city are offering to free bee design tattoos to raise funds for the victims and families affected by the attack.

@thehammo on our Stevenson Square spot.. #westandtogether #wearemanchester #streetart #urbanart #graffiti #outhousemcr

A post shared by OUT HOUSE (@outhousemcr) on May 29, 2017 at 10:25am PDT

Big Issue vendor Kevin, who sells the magazine in Winchester, created his own poignant street tribute to the victims of the attack at Manchester Arena, placing 22 flowers on the pavement surrounded by the message “God Bless.”

Thanks to the lovely stranger who bought us all ice lollies and bottles of water. Super kind.. Also thanks to anyone who offered us drinks as well.. Super appreciated #lovemanchester @thehammo #mural in the background #Manchester #outhousemcr #westandtogether

A post shared by OUT HOUSE (@outhousemcr) on May 25, 2017 at 10:27am PDT

Manchester Big Issue vendor Colin, who sells the magazine at Cornerhouse, said he took some flowers to the memorial at the arena.

“We’ve just to try to keep going at the moment,” he said. “We’ve got to be vigilant and look out for each other.”

Top photo: @ChristianAllen8