A renowned photography project, showcasing influential figures from Greater Manchester, has a new permanent residence. Originally exhibited at the Manchester Central Library, the captivating portraits now adorn The Manchester College’s City Campus Manchester foyer.
This impressive exhibit, led by students, features 118 photographic portraits of notable individuals from the region, available for public viewing during term times. With state-of-the-art facilities enhancing the display, the project celebrates the achievements of Greater Manchester’s prominent figures, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations.
A Permanent Home for Iconic Portraits
A significant photography project featuring prominent figures like Steve Coogan, Noel Gallagher, and John Cooper Clarke has found a new permanent home. Originally displayed at Manchester Central Library, the exhibit is now housed at The Manchester College’s City Campus Manchester.
Students from The Manchester College led the project, capturing portraits of 118 Greater Mancunians. These images are now on display in the foyer of the City Campus, available for public viewing during term times. This new location is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, enhancing the exhibit’s impact.
The project, known as Greater Mancunians, includes portraits of various influential individuals from Greater Manchester. The installation features a contour cut vinyl decal, created by Cornerstone Design and Marketing, that highlights the achievements of each subject.
Celebration of Achievements
Each portrait is accompanied by a decal celebrating the subject’s accomplishments. This touch adds a layer of depth to the exhibit, making it more than just a collection of photographs.
Stephen Gill, a senior sign maker and installer at Cornerstone, was thrilled to work on the project. A Manchester College alumnus, Gill studied art at the former Northenden campus in the 1990s.
Gill expressed his pride in contributing to the project, calling it a historic achievement for the college’s photography department and its students.
Inspiring Future Generations
The project has been seven years in the making, unveiled in April at the Central Library.
Attendees included many of the 120 student photographers and some of the influential subjects featured in the exhibit.
Those captured in the portraits include comedian Steve Coogan, actor Craig Cash, and Mayor Andy Burnham, among others.
A Legacy for Greater Manchester
Harry Potts, a photography tutor at The Manchester College, led the project. He is proud that the college principal offered the project a permanent home at the new Centre of Excellence for the Creative Arts.
Twenty out of the 118 images are on permanent display, with plans to rotate the images every term. This will allow the full collection to be seen over time by students, visitors, and the public.
Potts hopes the exhibit will inspire current and future photography and creative arts students for generations to come.
Contributors and Their Impact
The project showcases individuals who were born, raised, or have made Greater Manchester their home, contributing to the city’s social and creative landscape.
The installation is a tribute to these contributors and the impact they’ve had on both the local community and the wider world.
The exhibit captures the spirit of Greater Manchester, celebrating its diverse and influential residents.
Cornerstone’s Role
Cornerstone Design and Marketing played a crucial role in bringing the project to life. They produced and installed the vinyl decal that accompanies the portraits.
Stephen Gill and Sam Casey from Cornerstone have also worked on other notable projects. Their portfolio includes rebranding signage for Bolton Arena and digital signage for Manchester City Council.
Their involvement in the Greater Mancunians project aligns with their ethos of inspiring and nurturing talent.
A Milestone for The Manchester College
The Manchester College sees this project as a milestone in its history.
The installation not only celebrates the achievements of Greater Mancunians but also serves as an educational tool for students.
The project reflects the college’s commitment to the arts and its role in the local community.
The permanent installation of the Greater Mancunians project at The Manchester College showcases the rich cultural and social contributions of the region’s prominent figures. This exhibit not only highlights past achievements but also inspires future generations to continue the legacy of creativity and community impact.
Overall, the collaboration between students, photographers, and Cornerstone Design and Marketing embodies the spirit of Greater Manchester. The project stands as a testament to the enduring influence of local figures and the power of collective effort.
