Gay club photography

Together, they created a night that was as bold and boundary-pushing as the venue itself. Flesh arrived during a turbulent time in the photography of the city and its clubs. The night was a breath of fresh air and pioneered in many ways. It welcomed everyone — black, white, gay, straight — creating a space where difference was celebrated rather than merely tolerated.

Inside those doors, revellers could finally relax, safe from the threat of homophobic violence or intimidation, and simply enjoy the freedom of a night out on their own terms. Unafraid to be political, Flesh leaned into provocation, reclaiming gay slurs in its unapologetically confrontational promotional campaigns.

Years later, it would even inspire the title of the acclaimed television club, Queer as Folk. Alongside gay much-loved Manto bar and Paradise FactoryFlesh helped catalyse a remarkable shift in attitudes. For Jon, it was an incredible night to photograph due to the atmosphere and flamboyant outfits of the crowd. People came from all over; there were even people from Europe coming for it.

It was always packed and full of energy. It was one of the most important nights - probably the biggest gay night in Europe. It was always a special night. It was the best night to shoot due to the carnival atmosphere. It was very colourful, and everyone spent two or three days deciding what to wear.

I always brought a lot of film, knowing I would get some amazing images. Flesh was more than just a party; it was a cultural phenomenon that reflected and influenced broader societal changes. Kath, still a student when she began DJing at Flesh, recalls a young Jon Shard weaving through the crowd with his camera.

He was even younger than me — and absolutely slayed it. An absolute darling!

Flesh at The Hacienda, 1990s: Photographs by Jon Shard

Subscribe to BCA for occasional updates — including exhibition news, print editions, photography features and more. Full Name Email. British Culture Archive. Miss Flesh, Margi Clarke and Promotor Paul Cons on the right. Flesh at The Hacienda. DJ Paulette. Published September 23,