This spring, Manchester landmark Kimpton Clocktower Hotel will continue to establish itself as a cultural powerhouse in the city, unveiling a free exhibition of previously unseen portraits of Tony Wilson, one of Manchester’s most influential figures in music.
Launching at The Refuge on April 9th and running until 20th May, Tony Wilson: A Portrait of Manchester presents a rare series of photographs by acclaimed photographer Paul Wolfgang Webster. Shot in 1996 on Hassleblad 500CM medium format film camera, the shots offer a candid and intimate glimpse into the life of the legendary broadcaster and Factory Records founder. Fittingly displayed in one of Manchester’s most iconic spaces, the exhibition celebrates the city’s legendary music heritage and creative spirit.
Best known for his work at Granada Television and for launching Factory Records and the Haçienda nightclub, Tony Wilson was a defining force behind Manchester’s cultural explosion of the late twentieth century. His influence helped shape the city’s music scene and creative identity, leaving a legacy that continues to resonate today.
For the first time, the complete series from Webster’s 1996 photo shoot with Wilson will be exhibited together. Shot in Wilson’s apartment after the pair met to discuss the intention behind the images, the portraits were designed to reflect his deep connection to Manchester – a city whose music and spirit he helped project onto the global stage.
Born in Rochdale, Paul Wolfgang Webster has spent decades photographing people and places in his distinctive monochrome style. His work has been exhibited internationally, with several portraits now held in the permanent collection of London’s National Portrait Gallery.
Paul Wolfgang Webster said: “I felt it was important that the photographs reflected Tony’s connection with Manchester and the North West. He was relaxed and enthusiastic from the start, and once the conversation inevitably turned to music we bonded quickly. 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.”
The exhibition will run from 9th April to 20th May at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel. Limited-edition prints will be available for guests purchase.
Image: Credit: Paul Wolfgang Webster
