From rock to ceramic — mosaic honours Lynott

IRELAND’S great rock legend Phil Lynott became a “grout” rock legend yesterday.

A unique mosaic tile tribute to the former Thin Lizzy frontman was unveiled by his mother, Philomena, in the new showroom of a Cork tile shop. Ms Lynott, who jetted in specially to unveil the 25,000-piece work of art, has given it her seal of approval.

The impressive mosaic captures her son’s image at the height of his success. The three-by-three metre piece is mounted upstairs in Tile and Bathroom World’s new second floor showroom in the Mahon Retail Park.

It was the brainchild of Jim Moore, the company’s managing director. Although now based in Boston, Jim said he felt it would be nice to honour one of Ireland’s greatest musical heroes in his new showroom. He commissioned a specialist company to create the large mosaic featuring over 25,000 individual pieces of black, white and grey marble.

Phil’s mother described it as a “beautiful piece of work”.

“I knew nothing about it and got a great shock when Jim contacted me about it. I broke down and cried. If only my Philip had known how much he was loved, he would never have taken the drugs. This tribute is just wonderful.”

Ms Lynott, who visits schools and prisons giving anti-drug talks, urged young people to continue to love Phil and his music, but not his lifestyle.