Tony Wilson and Ben Kelly – The Haçienda Manchester.
Tony Wilson and Ben Kelly played instrumental roles in shaping the Hacienda nightclub, one of the most iconic cultural institutions of the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly within Manchester’s vibrant music and club scene. Wilson, the visionary founder of Factory Records and co-owner of the Hacienda, was responsible for the club’s creation and for bringing together key people who would help establish its cultural significance. One of the most crucial figures in this process was Ben Kelly, the designer tasked with transforming the Hacienda’s physical space into a nightclub that was as much a statement of cultural rebellion and artistic expression as it was a place to dance.
Wilson, a charismatic and often controversial figure, was known for his creative vision, which extended beyond just music into fashion, architecture, and design. He saw the Hacienda not merely as a nightclub but as a cultural experiment, a place where music, art, and social change could converge. Wilson’s goal was to create a space that was representative of the underground Manchester music scene, blending the gritty energy of post-punk with the emerging acid house and rave cultures of the late ’80s.
Wilson’s approach was unconventional and deeply collaborative. When it came time to design the Hacienda, he sought out Ben Kelly, a relatively unknown designer at the time, who had a reputation for working on unconventional, modern design projects. Kelly, with his innovative ideas and avant-garde style, became the perfect match for Wilson’s vision of creating a space that was both artistic and functional for the emerging rave culture.
Their relationship was one of mutual respect and shared vision. Wilson recognised that the Hacienda needed a design that would push the boundaries of traditional nightclub aesthetics, while Kelly understood that the club needed to reflect the subversive energy and non-conformity of Manchester’s music scene. Their partnership helped create a club that wasn’t just a venue but a living, breathing work of art.
Printed on FUJI CRYSTAL ARCHIVE GLOSS
Professional colour paper from the Fuji Crystal archive range with a gloss finish, which accentuates the colour to give a punchy, rich feel. Gives your image more contrast, glossiness and a punchier colour feel.
