Glasgow gifted new mural to mark 150 years since birth of Charles Rennie Mackintosh

GLASGOW has been gifted a new piece of street art to mark 150 years since the birth of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

The new Radisson RED hotel has commissioned the piece to celebrate the landmark, as well as their opening year.

Designed by well-known Glasgow street artist Rogue-One, the location of the mural is still top secret, with more information set to be revealed soon.

Michael Weston, Radisson RED’s curator, said: “When we launched in April we promised to ‘paint the town RED’.

“Glasgow is so famous for its iconic street art, so we thought what better way to celebrate opening our doors in 2018 than by gifting a new piece of street art to this city?”

Radisson RED is working with Art Pistol Projects and aerosol artist Rogue-One for the piece.

Ali Smith, Art Pistol Projects said: “It’s an exciting time for street art in Glasgow. We’re working on a really diverse range of projects just now and can’t wait to get this superb Mackintosh piece up there amongst it.”

Bobby McNamara, a.k.a Rogue-One, has been creating unique street art for over 20 years.

Renowned across Europe, he’s known for his photorealistic style and is behind a number of iconic artworks, including Mitchell Street’s floating taxi.

He said: “It’s an honour to be working on a Mackintosh themed mural, especially on the run up to the 150^th celebration. I will do my best to paint something amazing.”

The new artwork will be unveiled on Mackintosh’s birthday, June 7.

Director of the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Society, Stuart Robertson, said: “I’m confident Art Pistols and Rogue-One will capture Charles Rennie Mackintosh very well and I’m delighted that the city’s favourite son will have a dedicated mural.

“I’d like to thank Radisson RED Glasgow for commissioning this project and I’m sure it will be a must-see for any Mackintosh fans visiting the city.”

The new 174-room hotel opened on 30th April in Finnieston, next to The SSE Hydro.