M A N C H E S T E R M A N H O L E
C O L L E C T I V E
.png)
About
Manchester Manhole Collective is the creation of artist, Peter Sishton who discovered art deco manholes while recovering from a back injury in St-Jean-d'Angely, France. Peter photographed and showcased them, in a 2017 exhibition in Cardiff.
Meet the Collective
 Peter SishtonPeter is the founder of The Manchester Manhole Collective and is a profound believer in serendipity and the power of creative activity in supporting mental health. He is a passionate supporter of We Are Survivors and champions the need to vocalise the need to talk openly about the extent of sexual abuse and call it out and expose the impact on individuals, families, relationships and society as a hole. Pun intended! |  Sarah MerendaSarah is a manhole enthusiast and artist. She is also a textile designer and wallpaper designer from the east coast of the United States. |  Russel HoldenThere once was a fellow named Russ, Who designed lovely books without fuss. In the Lakes he'd reside, With his camera beside, Snapping manhole covers—no muss! |
|---|---|---|
 Mark Pook 'Pooky'Mark Pook (Pooky) is from Harrow who recently retired from a career as a university Reader and Molecular Genetics Scientist. His art can be seen on Instagram@Pooky1961 |  Robert DigbyBob is the director of the film adaptation of Heavy Metal and specialises in low-budget documentaries, often exploring paranormal themes. He’s worked with The Revd Lionel Fanthorpe—who once penned a poem about manhole covers—and won Best Documentary at the Wales International Film Festival 2024 for Parish Mysteries. “I saw Peter’s book as a quirky, captivating story,” says Bob. “It’s edutainment—art in the everyday, until a flood reminds us why it matters.” |  Archie WorkmanArchie Workman, a self-proclaimed Drainspotter and Parish Lengthsman in South Lakes, gained global fame in 2014 with a calendar featuring 12 unique drain covers. He later became Mr March for the Dull Men’s Club in 2015, "Anorak of the Year" in 2018, and was named Britain’s Dullest Man in 2019. Archie has appeared on UK TV and radio and shares his story in a talk called "My Life in the Gutter." |
The Manchester Manhole Collective is proud to present “Manc Holes and Beyond” at Manchester’s Central Library April 9th -30th June 2025
The world’s first exhibition celebrating the art and design of manhole & drain covers ever! These well-trodden yet often overlooked works of art that adorn the streets, roads & pavements of Manchester and beyond are given a long over exposure.
Manc Holes and Beyond
A new book written by Peter Sishton and the Manchester Manhole Collective. A photographic journey featuring the artists showcased in the exhibition. To be released on the 10th April 2025.
Heavy Metal
A Tribute to Manholes
Heavy Metal: A Tribute to Manholes" is a unique and interesting exploration of an often overlooked aspect of urban design. The collection of eighty images from various countries showcases the beauty and diversity of manhole covers, and the book's easy and humorous writing style makes it an engaging read.
The author's personal connection to the subject matter, which arose from a physical injury, adds a layer of depth to the book.
