Kevin Cummins: The Smiths and Morrissey Pics

FOLLOWING the success of Cummins' Joy Division exhibition in 2012, Manchester Photographic Gallery is proud to present Manchester: So much to answer for. A collection of Cummins' work with The Smiths and with Morrissey solo.

The photos of Morrissey and co are complemented by Cummins' photos of fans, showing the unique relationship and adoration that people still have for the Mancunian quartet today.

Cummins worked closely with the band and with Morrissey and Marr for a number of years after their untimely split - This exhibition houses 80 images -  in colour and black and white - showing Cummins' close relationship with one of the most important bands in the world. A band whose music still resonates worldwide today.

Many of the photographs in the show are unseen - and as they were originally published on newsprint, the others haven't previously been seen in this exceptional quality and detail. 

The photos of Morrissey and co are complemented by Cummins' photos of fans, showing the unique relationship and adoration that people still have for the Mancunian quartet today. These include a number of tattooed Morrissey acolytes - a series of 'work in progress' that Cummins began last year.

Cummins studied photography in Manchester and thus was perfectly placed to capture the raw excitement and energy of the Punk scene in 1976. From the Sex Pistols to Bowie and Oasis, Cummins has been there with his camera, recording indelible images that have defined so many musicians and their oeuvre for almost 40 years.

Andrew Hill from Manchester Photographic Gallery adds: “This exhibition will excite both Smiths fans, and those with a passion for this great city that we live in. Kevin’s work provides an intriguing insight into Morrissey and the band that can not be found anywhere else. We are genuinely excited to be hosting this show, which has attracted worldwide interest.” 

The exhibition will be housed in the Grade II Listed Sevendale House, one of the best known buildings in the city’s Northern Quarter which is about to benefit from a £6 million refurbishment project to restore it to its former grandeur.

The exhibition is being sponsored by Philip J Davies Holdings PLC, owners of the Sevendale Building, and is being supported by City in the Community. 

Unit 5, Sevendale House, Lever Street, City. M1 1WD. 0161 236 7224. Mon–Sat 10am–5pm. Other times by appointment.