23-06-2025
Tony Wilson Archive teams up with Manchester gallery for first ever exhibition
The first ever public exhibition of the archive of broadcaster and music producer Tony Wilson has opened in Manchester.
The former Granada Reports presenter and co-founder of Factory Records died in 2007 after achieving fame for championing North West music and culture.
Joy Division, Happy Mondays, New Order and the Haçienda Nightclub are just some of the Manchester icons Tony aka 'Mr Manchester' played a part in creating.
The immersive exhibition curated by Smolensky Gallery features an intimate collection of personal letters, photography, memorabilia and artwork, exploring Wilson's impact on music, design and culture in Manchester.
The items have been preserved and catalogued over the past 20-years by the Wilson family, led by Tony's son Oli.
Oli said: "This is the first time we're doing something in the real world as the Tony Wilson Archive so it's great to finally get here and be doing an exhibition with Smollensky Gallery, which I think is a great space and I couldn't think of a better place in Manchester for our home over the next 12 months.
"It's been a huge joy for me to share the archive with the world. It's really inspiring. All of the items tell a really unique story.
"A lot of these items haven't been seen since the actual time they were made.. so it feels like an honour to bring them out into the world again."
Director of Smolensky Gallery and exhibition curator Joe Wilson said: 'Tony Wilson's impact on this great city is everywhere to see and hear, as the music he helped to shape enjoys its renaissance. It's only right that the cultural works of Mr Manchester are available for everyone to see and enjoy.'
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