Train operator CrossCountry has brought what it calls “a spectacular new piece of public art” to Manchester.

The 13.5-metre-high mural – titled ‘Been There, Seen That’ – was unveiled on Friday 7th August on Thomas Street in the heart of the city’s Northern Quarter, a short walk from Manchester Piccadilly station. The mural will stay on display until Monday 31 August.

Thomas Street is an easily accessible destination for locals and visitors, who can also take the opportunity to visit the Northern Quarter’s independent shops, cafés and bars.

The mural was created by artist Peter Barber, working with CrossCountry and Global Street Art.

The operator describes the work as a “striking installation” that “transforms a familiar collection of colourful fridge magnets into a larger-than-life celebration of unforgettable adventures across the UK”.

The aim of the artwork, which includes 3D elements, is to encourage people to think differently about places they can discover closer to home.

Last year, CrossCountry arranged for a mural titled The Embrace to be displayed in Leeds.

Barber is Lead Artist and Head of Operations at Global Street Art, and has created murals and other forms of public art for commissions across the UK and internationally. 

The railway regularly hosts murals, with this year’s examples including artworks at Sudbury and Harrow Road station and at the new Cambridge South station.

“Following the fantastic response to The Embrace last year, we wanted to create another memorable piece of public art that people would enjoy discovering and sharing. Peter Barber has created something truly unique with Been There, Seen That, and we are excited to bring this striking artwork to Manchester.

“The UK is full of incredible destinations that are easy to reach by train, and this mural celebrates the memories we make along the way. We hope it inspires people to explore somewhere new while enjoying one of Manchester’s most exciting new artworks this summer.”

David Mullins, Head of Brand, Communications & Digital Strategy at CrossCountry