Statue of L.S. Lowry

1887-1976

Sited in Mottram-in-Longendale

Laurence Stephen Lowry is one of the most popular British artists of the twentieth century, best known for his atmospheric urban and industrial landscapes. Born in Stretford, Manchester, Lowry enjoyed drawing as a boy, but it was not until he started work as a clerk that he was able to afford drawing lessons. His early drawings from life reveal an accomplished and academic draughtsman - a far cry from the stylised figures of later years.

Working as a rent collector, Lowry got to know the poorer districts of Manchester. The Mills, the terraces streets and their inhabitants provide the subject matter of some of his most famous works. Calling on tenants in the meaner districts of Manchester, particularly around the Oldham Road, provided him with a wealth of ideas for paintings.

It was during the 1930s that Lowry achieved any kind of commercial success. Wider recognition followed and he was invited to become an offical war artist.

In 1948 Lowry moved from Pendelbury, the house he had lived in with his parents , to 'The Elms', in Mottram-in-Longendale. In 1952 he retired from the Pall Mall Property Company and began to enjoy his retirement. At this point he was becoming a celebrity, with regular coverage of his activities. Several honours and a series of films followed.

At mottram, Lowry held court, ever available, ever willing to talk. Friends, critics, writers, aspiring artists, dealers... all called, and most left satisfied. Lowry seemed to enjoy the interruptions. He realised the value of 'good press'.

In 1962, in his seventy-fourth year he was elected as a Royal Academician.

This finely detailed bronze of Lowry is sited on a busy corssroads opposite the Post Office, just a few hundred yards from 'The Elms'. He is seated on a bench, sketching the scene, in one of his favoured places in the village to stop and chat.

This statue is fast becoming one of the most popular land-marks of Greater Manchester.