Al Baker | Hulme, Manchester, 1990s-2000s
Al Baker has photographed his surroundings as a resident of Hulme, Manchester, since the early 1990s. He documented life in the inner-city district that had been left to decline by the city council. It was a diverse community, not without trouble and crime. However, it was also a haven for squatters, punks, and creatives who took advantage of cheap (mainly free) accommodation and a community that embraced a free party spirit.
Baker captured the last days of the brutalist crescents and high-rise walkways as they were eventually demolished to make way for modern housing.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Photo © Al Baker.
Gallery first published 21st July, 2021. © Al Baker / British Culture Archive. All rights reserved.
Aside from his images of Hulme, Al has documented Manchester’s underground music scene for many years. You can see a selection of his archive on his website and Facebook page.
All photos © Al Baker, all rights reserved. No usage or reproduction of any kind without obtaining prior permission of the copyright holder.
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