Manchester United superstar makes surprise appearance at grassroots art studio

Known for his artistic flair, and now singing as much as his footballing finesse, King Cantona’s arrival left the artists at GRIT in awe at the Great Northern Warehouse.

Eric Cantona

The famously philosophical former Manchester United star flew in from Paris to reunite with GRIT Studios resident Michael Browne, a renowned fine artist and Cantona’s long-time collaborator.

The two creative forces first made waves together with their joint exhibition, From Moss Side to Marseille, which was recently on display at The Football Museum. Rumour has it they’re planning a fresh project—but for now, Browne remains tight-lipped, promising big announcements in the coming weeks.

A new Cantona/Browne project?

Cantona’s visit was no quick photo op; he spent over an hour touring the studio, meeting GRIT’s vibrant community of artists, and immersing himself in their work. GRIT Co-Founder John Macaulay, himself a die-hard United fan who has cheered on the team in 25 countries, described the experience as a “full circle moment, having watched Eric play all over the world,” Macaulay shared, “it’s a true honour that he’s flown in to see our talented artists.”

As Cantona toured the space, he engaged with artists from diverse backgrounds and specialties.

Mosaic artist Francis Thorrington, plein air painter Ben Rock (known as Sketch MCR), painters Jodie Silverman, Helen Davies, Sophie Macaulay, and woodworker Gus Riddell each had the chance to talk through their work.

Thorrington, a die-hard United fan, couldn’t help but smile when Cantona described his mosaics as “wonderful.”

Cantona’s hands-on appreciation extended even further when he picked up a handmade guitar crafted by Chris Polin.

The musician in Cantona came alive as he strummed the guitar, which Pollin had painstakingly built from highly exotic woods. It was a true meeting of artistic minds, underscoring GRIT Studios’ ethos of accessibility and creativity for all.

Before leaving, Cantona left GRIT with a powerful message, expressing his admiration for a studio that so fully embodies inclusivity: “It’s refreshing to see a place where art is for everyone—not just the elite.”

Manchester’s art lovers won’t have to wait long to follow in Cantona’s footsteps.

GRIT Studios Open Day

GRIT Studios is hosting an Open Day this Saturday from 2 to 6 p.m., welcoming all to explore the work of these talented local artists. If today’s surprise visit is anything to go by, GRIT Studios is poised to become one of the city’s most dynamic spaces for artistic discovery.

You can find out more about GRIT Studios by clicking here