manchester central library
Nearly 50 years PUNK came onto the scene in 1976 and blossomed into a movement representing a generation of youth from the outright activist to the rebellious it had an impact on social and political landscape. From challenging sexism and homophobia to building links between cultures to push the boundaries and reflect a multicultural Britain. It has its impact in every avenue of our society. Fashion, economics, politics and for the people involved in was more than a fad it was a way of life. To be celebrated and this exhibition aims to bring those people to the fore.
“UNITED IN REBELLION: The Story of the Anti-Nazi League”
A talk inspired by Geoff Brown’s book A People’s History of the Anti-Nazi League, 1977–1981
Discover how the Anti-Nazi League (ANL) emerged from the streets, schools and music scenes of late-1970s Britain to confront racism and the far-right. This session explores the intersection of politics, culture and protest, revealing how music, youth activism and mass mobilisation came together to shift a nation’s mood. This talk connects the rebellious energy of punk with the collective power of activism — reminding us that protest can also be joyful, creative, and loud.
Erika Rhodes – “The Politics of Punk” (12.15-1.15)
Join exhibition curator Erika Rhodes for a dynamic talk exploring the politics of punk — a journey through the social and political flashpoints that led to punk’s explosion in 1976.
Day Tours: 11:00 – 11:30 am & 3:15 – 3:45 pm
Step inside PUNK: The Art of Rebellion with our guided tours, running twice daily for visitors who want to experience the exhibition in full colour, context, and sound.
These 30-minute tours walk you through each case and story, tracing punk’s journey from the streets of 1970s Britain to the creative activism that followed. The tours end with an interactive Q&A, inviting visitors to reflect on what rebellion means today.
Special Events
Special Event Days – 29 November 2025
Ian Fourcandles (Ian Moss) – “Why Punk Mattered to Me” (1.30 – 3pm)
Ian Moss, also known as Ian Fourcandles, was just eighteen when he stood among only twenty-eight paying attendees at the now-legendary Sex Pistols gig at Manchester’s Lesser Free Trade Hall — the night that changed music history. As vocalist for The Hamsters, Ian shared stages with The Fall and Joy Division, and later led a succession of fiercely independent bands. In the 21st century, he co-founded German Shepherd Records, fronted acclaimed bands including Sicknurse, Kill Pretty, and Four Candles, and became an author of several well-received books on music and culture.
His talk and reading, “Why Punk Mattered to Me,” reflects on the spirit of DIY rebellion, the drive for authenticity, and punk’s continuing relevance in art and society today.
Erika Rhodes – “The Politics of Punk” (12.15 – 1.15)
Join exhibition curator Erica Rhodes for a dynamic talk exploring the politics of punk — a journey through the social and political flashpoints that led to punk’s explosion in 1976. From recession and rebellion to protest and performance, this session uncovers how punk gave a voice to Britain’s disillusioned youth and reshaped art, music, and activism for generations to come
Day Tours: 11:00 – 11:30 am & 3:15 – 3:45 pm
Step inside PUNK: The Art of Rebellion with our guided tours, running twice daily for visitors who want to experience the exhibition in full colour, context, and sound.
These 30-minute tours walk you through each case and story, tracing punk’s journey from the streets of 1970s Britain to the creative activism that followed. The tours end with an interactive Q&A, inviting visitors to reflect on what rebellion means today.
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