A FOUNDATION has been set up in memory of a cult rock artist and cartoonist from Rossendale.

The Ray Lowry Foundation aims to provide a scholarship to a student studying a course in art to a higher degree level, and to make financial awards linked to individual art-based projects.

Ray shot to fame in the 1970s when he produced cartoon artwork for the NME and Punch Magazine, before his passion for rock and roll led him to create the acclaimed artwork for rock legends The Clash’s London Calling album sleeve.

He died at his home in Burnley Road East, Waterfoot, in October 2008, just four weeks after launching a major comeback exhibition at See Gallery, Crawshawbooth.

Julian Williams, who is managing Ray Lowry’s art estate on behalf of Ray’s son Sam, is one of the foundation leaders.

He said: “Ray never went on to further education to study art and we wonder what effect an education would have had on Ray.

“He often looked for the upcoming cartoonist because of his passion for the subject, but unless someone goes to university to specialise in that subject it can be hard.

“The trust will sponsor a student to provide them with resources and also help fund art projects on merit.

"Our first fundraising event will be in London’s Idea Generation gallery, and we know of some big names who will be attending.”

The launch of the foundation will be celebrated alongside the 30th anniversary of The Clash’s London Calling album.

Internationally-acclaimed artists Tracy Emin and Liam Spencer have confirmed they will contribute art to the event, on June 17.

Each artist will produce an album-sized piece of art in their own style based on their interpretation of Lowry’s iconic album cover.

The exhibition will then tour Europe, Russia, America, Australia and the Far East, before work is auctioned and all proceeds donated to the foundation.

Salford-born Ray chose Rossendale as his permanent residence for two decades after falling in love with the Valley.

Julian added: “Only a few people choose to pursue art at university.

"However, we only have to look at the world to see we are surrounded by art, and we hope the foundation will help artists carry on.”

The Royal Mail released a series of first class stamps earlier this month based on Lowry’s London Calling designs.