100 Years, 100 Faces: Stoke-on-Trent’s Landmark Mural Celebrating a Century of History
How You Can Nominate a Local Hero for the 100 Faces Mural
As Stoke-on-Trent approaches its centenary in 2025, a powerful and visually stunning tribute is set to commemorate the city’s rich history and the people who have shaped it. The ‘100 Years, 100 Faces’ mural will be a remarkable public art project, bringing together the community to celebrate the individuals who represent the past, present and future of Stoke-on-Trent
A Community-Driven Tribute
Funded and coordinated by Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID, this initiative invites residents from all six towns to take part in the selection process. Through a public vote, people will have the opportunity to decide which figures – from unsung heroes to renowned local legends – will be honoured in this large-scale city centre artwork.
Jonathan Bellamy, Chairman of Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID, emphasised the importance of community involvement:
“We are calling on the expertise of all communities in Stoke-on-Trent. Exploring the hidden histories of unsung heroes and those who have publicly dedicated their lives to our city is what this mural is all about. The BID is dedicated to celebrating 100 years of Stoke-on-Trent, particularly to honour stories that are woven into the fabric of our community”.
Set for unveiling in autumn 2025, the mural will serve as a testament to the city’s resilience, creativity, and sense of identity. Alongside the artwork, a celebratory weekend of music, art performances, and cultural events will bring the community together to mark this historic moment.
Uncovering Local Heroes
Theatre Director at Regent Theatre & Victoria Hall, Cheryl Taylor, is working closely with local groups to ensure the selection process reflects the city’s diversity:
“I’m delighted to be a part of the ‘100 faces mural.” It’s an honour to be working in collaboration with the BID team on this important project. Our shared ambition is to celebrate and honour some of the most influential Stokies, as well as uncover some lesser known people that have contributed to the city’s successes over the past 100 years. We aim to share some remarkable stories and create a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations to achieve greatness, remain proud of our heritage and keep the heart of our city beating stronger than ever.”
In addition to the mural, a dedicated book will be published, featuring biographies of the selected individuals and honourable mentions of other key figures in Stoke-on-Trent’s history. This project is part of a broader calendar of events celebrating the city’s centenary, ensuring that Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage is recognised and remembered for generations to come.
Bringing the Mural to Life
Local artists Rob Fenton and Alastair Barnett, renowned for their 2023 mural celebrating Shelton Bar Steelworks, have been commissioned to bring this vision to life. Their artistic expertise will transform the selected faces into a lasting landmark, capturing the essence of Stoke-on-Trent’s past, present, and future.
The nomination window opens on 25 February 2025, allowing residents to put forward their suggestions via https://www.stokeontrentcitycentre.co.uk/stoke100. The final selections will be revealed on Stoke-on-Trent Day, 5 June 2025, a newly established date marking the city’s centenary celebrations.
This ambitious project is more than just a mural – it is a collective celebration of Stoke-on-Trent’s people, their achievements, and the stories that have shaped the city we know today.