The exhibitions celebrate the legend’s ‘connection with Manchester and the North West’
Rare Tony Wilson photographs are to go on display together for the first time as part of a Manchester exhibition(Image: Paul Wolfgang Webster)
A free exhibition featuring a series of rare photographs of Tony Wilson is set to be displayed at a Manchester hotel.
Nicknamed Mr Manchester for his impact on the city, Wilson had many strings to his bow including being the founder of The Hacienda nightclub, the co-founder of Factory records, and presenting a number of radio and television shows.
For his work, Wilson, who passed away at the age of 57 in 2007, was also behind the foundations of some of Manchester’s biggest bands, including Joy Division, New Order, and Happy Mondays. He was portrayed on screen by Steve Coogan in the 2002 film 24 Hour Party People.
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An exhibition featuring a series of portraits of the figurehead taken by acclaimed photographer Paul Wolfgang Webster will now go on public display at The Refuge, situated within the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel on Oxford Road, next month. A limited-edition run of prints will also be available to buy on the opening night.
Running from April 9 to May 20, the Tony Wilson: A Portrait of Manchester exhibition will consist of a collection of photos shot in 1996 using a Hassleblad 500CM medium format film camera. It will mark the first time that the complete series of photographs will be exhibited together.
Tony Wilson earned his Mr Manchester nickname for his impact on the city’s culture and music scenes(Image: Paul Wolfgang Webster)
Shot in Wilson’s apartment after the pair met to discuss the intention behind the images, the portraits were designed to reflect the Manchester legend’s deep connection to the city. Born in Rochdale, Paul Wolfgang Webster has spent decades photographing people and places in his distinctive monochrome style.
“I felt it was important that the photographs reflected Tony’s connection with Manchester and the North West,” Webster recalled of the series of portraits. “He was relaxed and enthusiastic from the start, and once the conversation inevitably turned to music we bonded quickly.
The photographs were taken in 1996(Image: Paul Wolfgang Webster)
“Tony was completely at ease in front of the camera and very open to experimenting with different backdrops and settings. It remains one of the most enjoyable photo shoots I’ve ever done.”
Marc Fink, F&B Director at Kimpton Clocktower, said: “Tony Wilson played such a huge part of Manchester’s story, so it’s an honour to hold this exhibition here. There’s something very personal about these photographs and showing them at The Refuge – a space that’s all about bringing people together – makes it even more special. We’re excited to welcome people in and see how they connect with it.”
Tony Wilson: A Portrait of Manchester is at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel from April 9 to May 20.