Local photographer Richard Kelly and Salford artist Emma Evans have collaborated works and brought together two sides of Manchester’s lockdown story to create ‘My Utopia.’
To be hosted at the famous Carlton Club in Whalley Range launching 2nd September, the exhibition marks a turning point in the pandemic and puts a positive spin on days past.
Kelly’s images, taken on his daily walks, are a reflection of the city and its outskirts during a bleak time for Manchester. The images are a reflection of isolation, and a stark reminder of the pandemic.
Evans – who made a name for herself during lockdown with doodles on Monton High
Street’s shop windows – creates doodles of positivity and snippets of life as it was and as it
will be again.
The collaboration is a juxtaposition of experiences, artistic disciplines and two very different
takes on the city, but creates a positive body of work. A reflection of Manchester over the last eighteen months and a bright look into the future – Manchester in a new light.
To celebrate the re-opening of the city and a nod in the right direction, the pair will be
showcasing their work at the Carlton Club, Whalley Range. The showcase opens on September 2nd at 7pm. The Carlton Club, known as ‘the social,’ is an apt venue for such an exhibition and celebration of collaboration.
The all important drinks will be provided by sponsors Sipsmith Gin and Collective Arts Europe. Manchester DJ’s Chris Massey & Sprechen Music will supply the tunes.
The exhibition has been printed, bound and made into a book which is available to buy now, alongside prints on the My Utopia website: myutopiaproject.com.
Tickets are free and can be secured here;