As lead guitarist and co-songwriter in the Stone Roses, John
Squire was one of the original movers and shakers of the Manchester
music scene in the late 80s. As well as his reputation as a
musician, Squire is also a well-known, published artist.
In the 80s and 90s, his Jackson Pollock-influenced artwork
adorned singles, album covers and promotional posters for his and
the Stone Roses’ music. Since then, his artistic output has
broadened into new mediums and influences and his latest solo art
exhibition will be on display at Gallery Oldham throughout the
summer before touring to Austria and Tokyo in the autumn. And no,
the Stone Roses aren’t reforming...
What was the best gig you went to?
The Clash, Manchester Apollo, October 1977.
What’s your favourite Northwest originated song or piece of
music?
Chinese Laundry Blues by George Formby.
What was your first/best experience of going to a gallery or
museum?
Seeing the Mark Rothko Seagrams paintings at Tate Modern in the
early 80s with no prior knowledge of the man or his work.
What’s your favourite painting/piece of art/sculpture?
This week it’s Delineator by Richard Serra.
What was your first/best experience of going to the
theatre?
I saw my Grandad in something at a community centre in Wythenshawe
when I was little, all the coloured lights impressed me. It’s been
a downward spiral for me and theatre since then.
Do you have a favourite Northwest pub or restaurant?
The Mill Lane Chippy, Macclesfield — fish, chips, peas and curry
sauce, perfect every time.
Do you have a favourite Northwest local food?
See above!
Can you suggest a ‘hidden gem’ in your home
town/neighbourhood?
The Ship Inn, Wincle.
What’s the one thing in your home town/neighbourhood that people
really shouldn’t miss if they go there?
The view from the top of Shutlingslow near Macclesfield forest.
Was there anything particular about Northwest culture that
inspired
you to do what you’ve done/what you do now?
The industrial revolution, The Peterloo Massacre and its legacy,
The Russell Club, Hacienda, So It Goes, The Other Side of
Midnight.
Blue Monday or Happy Monday?
Blue!
Bunny Men or Diddy Men?
Bunny.
Jimmy Saville or Peter Saville?
Peter.
Beatrix Potter or Brian Potter?
Brian.
Welcome to the Pleasure Beach or Welcome to the Pleasure
Dome?
Beach.
Eccles Cake or Kendal Mint Cake?
Eccles.