By Staff Reporter
A STRIKING new mural celebrating the 20th anniversary of Snow Patrol’s landmark album Eyes Open has been unveiled in Bangor, paying tribute to one of Northern Ireland’s most successful bands and adding another eye-catching piece of public art to the town.
The large-scale artwork, created by local artist Jossiepops, recreates the iconic album cover on a wall owned by Hamilton Morris Waugh.
Measuring approximately 8m by 10m, the mural was commissioned by the band to mark two decades since the release of the record that helped propel Snow Patrol to international stardom.
Reflecting on the project, Johnny Hamilton – AKA Jossiepops – described it as a dream commission.
He said: “It’s not every day you’re approached by one of your favourite bands to paint a celebratory piece. If you’d told a younger me that one day I’d be painting an 8m x 10m mural of the album cover that was blasting through my CD player, I’d have said, ‘Away on.’ But hey, looks like I just did.”
The artist said he was delighted to return to the Hamilton Morris Waugh wall and thanked the building owners for their support throughout the project.
He also praised the reception he received from local residents during the weeks spent creating the mural.
“To the people of Bangor, your coffee, buns and friendly chats are what it’s all about,” he said. “Art sparks conversation, and whether you know what this piece is or not, it’s sure to create discussion and admiration for a truly epic abstract masterpiece.”
The artist thanked Snow Patrol members Gary Lightbody, Johnny McDaid and Nathan Connolly for placing their trust in him.
“Thanks to Gary, Johnny and Nathan for trusting me with this one. I hope I did you proud. Keep making those belter tunes for another 20 years,” he added.
The mural was also welcomed by the Mayor of Ards and North Down, Craig Blaney, who met the artist ahead of the official unveiling.
The Mayor said: “Great to catch up with the talented Jossiepops ahead of the unveiling of his latest mural in Bangor, celebrating the 20th anniversary of Snow Patrol’s iconic Eyes Open album.
“Fantastic to see such a brilliant local artist entrusted with marking one of Northern Ireland’s greatest musical success stories. A wonderful tribute to the band and another reminder of the creativity and talent we have right here in our hometown.”
The new artwork is expected to become a popular attraction for music fans and visitors to Bangor, while serving as a lasting tribute to one of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated musical exports.
