By the 1960s the ‘teen’ identity was beginning to really find its feet as it’s own culture with ideals, social norms and dress sense starting to give purpose to what had previously just been the ages between child and adult. In PYMCA’s Unordinary People, Exploring British Youth Culture, 1960 – 2009 Exhibition the identities that shaped generations are documented through revealing media, capturing not only the style but the attitude of each year’s youth.
From Gavin Watson’s accidental documentational photos of the skinhead movement that inspired 2006’s This Is England to essays, video and other rare cultural items, the real essence of life as a young person is to be shown as part of the Royal Albert Hall’s ‘reflect’ series.
The Photographic Youth Music Culture Archive was established over a decade ago by Jon Swinstead, intending to capture the self expression, resilience and creativity of generations of people now grown up but not forgotten thanks to exhibitions like these.
A talk led by legendary cultural anthropologist and photographer Ted Polhemus and private view of the exhibition at 6pm, 23rd April, price £6.50 which includes complimentary glass of wine.
Unordinary People opens 21 April-24 May with some free open days.
For more info visit www.royalalberthall.com or www.pymcart.com
Images credits: Image 01 – Paul Hartnett, Image 02 – Martin Usborne, Image 03 – David Swindells.
Words: Alexandra Rochester
