Factory International, a new multi-purpose arts space that will provide additional opportunities for Manchester International Festival (MIF) events, is expected to officially open in October 2023.
Factory International in Manchester blends the city’s industrial and creative heritage. Its modern design by OMA contrasts with the refurbished brick warehouses and new apartments, offices and studios in the St John’s area. The site was once home to the legendary Haçienda disco club, which was subsequently demolished. To pay homage to Manchester’s cultural heritage, Ben Kelly, who designed the Haçienda disco club in 1982, was brought on board. And Peter Saville, co-founder of Factory Records and a designer who has personalised record covers, was involved in creating the graphic identity for the new building. Located on the site of the former Granada Television studios, Factory International will serve as a venue for theatre, concerts and exhibitions by prominent national and international artists.
The main concept was to create a space where you could witness the birth of a work of art, where objects appeared in front of you and around you. Art has become so valuable that it is kept in vaults or behind glass, similar to laboratory conditions. Factory International will be a place where works can be touched by hand, a real art factory.
To explore Factory International’s vision and upcoming events, visit their website.
Featured image courtesy of FACTORY MANCHESTER
