This autumn, Tate Britain is set to showcase a significant exhibition that delves into the world of photography in the 1980s. Opening on November 21, The 80s: Photographing Britain will feature around 350 images and archival materials from that era.
The exhibition aims to capture the essence of Thatcher’s Britain through documentary photography, showcasing iconic moments such as the miners’ strikes and anti-racism demonstrations. Photographers like John Harris, Brenda Prince, Syd Shelton, and Paul Trevor will bring history to life through their lens. Additionally, projects responding to the conflict in Northern Ireland by Willie Doherty and Paul Seawright will be on display.
With over 70 photographers and collectives represented, the exhibition will shed light on a generation that explored new ideas in photographic practice. Artists like Maud Sulter, Mumtaz Karimjee, and Mitra Tabrizian will be featured, showcasing the diverse range of talent during that period.
The images on display will span across the UK, capturing various landscapes and social issues. From post-industrial Welsh landscapes to portraits of youth unemployment in Newcastle, the exhibition will offer a comprehensive view of Britain in the 1980s.
Moreover, the exhibition will explore important developments in photography, including technical advancements in color photography and the influence of cultural theory by scholars like Stuart Hall and Victor Burgin. Publications like Ten.8 and Camerawork will also be highlighted for their impact on the field.
The exhibition will also focus on artists who experimented with images to reflect on diasporic identities and ideas of Black beauty and femininity. Additionally, photographers who advocated for the visibility of the LGBTQ+ community during challenging times like Section 28 and the AIDS epidemic will be showcased.
The exhibition will conclude with works that celebrate countercultural movements of the 80s, featuring documentation of underground performances and club culture. It will also look towards the future, highlighting the emergence of i-D magazine and photographers like Wolfgang Tillmans and Jason Evans who revolutionized fashion photography.
The 80s: Photographing Britain will be on display at Tate Britain from November 21, 2024, to May 5, 2025, offering a unique glimpse into the world of photography during a transformative decade.