New exhibition of iconic photography featuring The Jam to open at the Barbican.
A free exhibition celebrating the photography of iconic band The Jam opens at the City of London Corporation’s Barbican Music Library on January 14.
Called True is The Dream, the exhibition explores the photography of Derek D’Souza, who has captured extraordinary and insightful glimpses of one of the UK’s most revered groups – and its frontman Paul Weller – over four decades.
In 1981, super fan D’Souza sent in some photographs he had taken from the audience at The Jam gigs to the fan club. And, to his surprise, Paul Weller’s mother called and asked him to photograph the band. The shoot was subsequently arranged at 18th century Chiswick House in West London.
This is where D’Souza’s most famous photograph, now hung at The National Portrait Gallery, was shot and shows the band behind gate railings in the grounds of the historic building.
NOW READ: What’s on around the City of London in January
Since then, D’Souza has shot hundreds of images of The Jam, The Style Council and Paul Weller. The exhibition features many of these shots.
Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee, Wendy Hyde, said: “This exhibition will celebrate one of the UK’s most revered bands. It’s a truly memorable slice of rock and pop history.
“These photographs are extraordinary glimpses of an astonishing band who, almost 40 years after their break-up, still have a huge influence and loyal following.
“The Jam’s energetic concerts and sound showcased their social awareness, and made Paul Weller a spokesman for his generation.
“We are proud to display Derek D’Souza’s remarkable work as we welcome more and more people back into the City.”
Derek D’Souza said: “The Barbican Music Library is a renowned space and I am delighted to see my photographs at such a fantastic location.
“This exhibition features photographs I took of the band on location, performing and relaxing.”
To see more from Derek D’Souza, visit derekdsouzaphotography.com or head to barbican.org.uk for more information.
For the latest headlines from the City of London and beyond, follow City Matters on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
