A story of my Liverpool life

A photography exhibition by Mike McCartney – renowned documentary photographer, member of the Scaffold and LJMU Honorary Fellow – is now open in LJMU’s Redmonds Building for LJMU staff and students.

This specially curated, exclusive exhibition features favourite compositions, chosen and narrated by McCartney of his home city from the 1950s to the present day and includes a number of never-before-seen photographs.

The exhibition debuted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in April 2017 as part of LJMU’s annual graduation ceremonies for its Malaysian students.

“I want to show that Liverpool is a weird and wonderful place and this exhibition is a reflection of me and how I see my city,” explained Mike McCartney. “Kuala Lumpur was fascinating but coming back to Liverpool, I thought ‘Hold on son. It's a different ball game’. In KL the exhibition was looked at by people who don’t know Liverpool. Now it’s got to resonate with people who know the city.”

So prior to the opening, Mike reviewed the exhibition, increasing the number of photos on display from 35 to 40 and also redrafting the captions. “Twelve years ago LJMU paid me the greatest honour by making me an Honorary Fellow of the University and I wanted to pay them back,” he added. “What better way than bestowing this exhibition and encouraging students to look at these photos and get their own ideas. These photos are my legacy for future generations. I hope they like them.”

Mike McCartney officially opened the exhibition during LJMU’s annual Teaching and Learning Conference. The University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nigel Weatherill, was also in attendance and he commented: “Fellowship is very special to the University, its part of our DNA and we are very keen to engage with our Honorary Fellows. Mike is very passionate about LJMU and it was his idea to stage this exhibition. It’s an excellent example of how our Honorary Fellows can and do play an active role in the life of the University, inspiring both staff and students.”

The exhibition commemorates LJMU’s 25th anniversary and will be on display at major University events throughout 2017, including graduation in July and the welcome event for new students in St George’s Hall in September.

LJMU became one of the UK’s modern civic universities in 1992. Prior to this as Liverpool Polytechnic, it began the tradition of awarding Honorary Fellowships in 1987 and each year since then staff and students have been asked to nominate prominent figures who they believe deserve to receive public recognition and thanks for their outstanding contribution to society.

Today, LJMU has nearly 300 Honorary Fellows, including Mike McCartney, and while these prominent figures come from all walks of life and occupations, from politicians, authors and actors to scientists and footballers, what unifies them is the fact that they are exceptional and inspirational role models for current and future students.

The Scaffold were a comedy, poetry and music trio consisting of Mike McGear (Mike McCartney), Roger McGough, and John Gorman. Their biggest hits include Lily The Pink and Thank U Very Much.