Refugee's art: Church mosaic faces new life

A remarkable church mosaic, created in 1955 by Hungarian Jewish refugee George Mayer-Marton, is on the verge of restoration. This Grade II listed artwork at Holy Rosary Church in Oldham, a rare blend of mosaic and fresco depicting the crucifixion, was partially painted over in the 1980s by a well-meaning priest. The church, which closed in 2017 due to declining congregation, subsequently faced vandalism.

Heritage campaigners and a newly formed trust are now leading efforts to revive the mural, described by the Victoria and Albert Museum as a "remarkable example of post-war mural art." Their ambitious goal is to transform the former church into a cultural hub focused on supporting younger people. This initiative aims to put Oldham on the map and celebrate the artistic legacy of Mayer-Marton, who also created art for Liverpool's Metropolitan Cathedral.