The photography show “HIP HOP – Living a Dream” at Galerie Bene Taschen in Cologne, Germany, features the works of three American photographers: Jamel Shabazz, Joseph Rodriguez, and Gregory Bojorquez. The exhibition highlights the culture and personalities of hip-hop music through photographs taken by each artist.
The photography show “HIP HOP – Living a Dream” at Galerie Bene Taschen in Cologne, Germany, features the works of three American photographers: Jamel Shabazz, Joseph Rodriguez, and Gregory Bojorquez. The exhibition highlights the culture and personalities of hip-hop music through photographs taken by each artist.
The Photographers
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Jamel Shabazz: Born and raised in New York City, Shabazz is a photographer who has worked separately from the other two artists but shares their devotion to documenting hip-hop history and culture. His photograph “Window Shopping” (1980) shows the backs of two young men checking out eyeglasses in a storefront display.
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Joseph Rodriguez: Born and raised in Brooklyn, Rodriguez is also a photographer who has worked separately from Shabazz and Bojorquez but shares their passion for documenting hip-hop culture. His photograph “The Dirty South – a story about Master P. with C-Murder and SILKK The Shocker” (1997) shows the vibrant scene of hip-hop in New Orleans.
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Gregory Bojorquez: A Los Angeles native, Bojorquez is a photographer who has worked separately from Shabazz and Rodriguez but shares their dedication to documenting hip-hop history and culture. His photograph “DPG” (1997) shows the energy of hip-hop fans in downtown Los Angeles.
The Exhibition
The exhibition features selected works by each artist, showcasing their unique perspectives on hip-hop culture. The photographs are interspersed among images of young people who have followed their style and swagger. The show highlights the unity of the three photographers in their devotion to documenting hip-hop history and culture.
The Significance of Hip-Hop
Hip-hop music has had a seismic effect not only on wardrobes but also on how fans see the world. The lyrics and beats that have kept generations dancing and inspired are reflected in the photographs at the exhibition. The show is as poetic and powerful as any hip-hop track, highlighting the significance of hip-hop culture.
The Exhibition Details
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Title: “HIP HOP – Living a Dream”
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Location: Galerie Bene Taschen, Cologne, Germany
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Dates: Through February 15, 2025
Exhibition Review: HIP HOP – Living a Dream at Galerie Bene Taschen
Three American Photographers Shine in This Show Highlighting Hip-Hop Culture and Personalities
A Unifying Devotion to Hip-Hop
Though these photographers have worked separately, their shared devotion to hip-hop music is evident in every frame. As Jamel Shabazz explained, “The main artistic connection is our love for the craft and our desire to document history and culture.” This unity is palpable throughout the exhibition.
Capturing Moments of Realness
Each photographer has captured moments that reflect the authenticity and influence of hip-hop on fashion and culture. Jamel Shabazz’s photographs, such as “Window Shopping” (1980) and “Sneakers, Brooklyn, NYC 1982,” showcase the everyday lives of young people in the early days of hip-hop. His colorful print of sneakers will tug at the heartstrings of sneakerheads, highlighting how his work continues to be relevant today.
A Celebration of Hip-Hop Legends
The exhibition also features photographs of actual musicians who made hip-hop what it is today, including Public Enemy, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Missy Elliott, Lil’ Kim, Biz Markie, André 3000, Big Boi, and Swizz Beatz. Their photos are interspersed among those of young people who have followed their style and swagger.
Photography as Documentation
Gregory Bojorquez shared his thoughts on photographing hip-hop fans versus celebrities: “They know the drill, but people on the street sometimes will just tell you to fuck off when you ask to take a photo.” His photographs, such as “DPG” (1997), capture moments of realness and authenticity.
The Power of Hip-Hop
The exhibition highlights how music is the driving force behind hip-hop culture. As Jamel Shabazz noted, “All it takes is one song to bring back 1,000 memories.” The photographs in “Living a Dream” are as poetic and powerful as the lyrics on any hip-hop track.
- Photographers: Jamel Shabazz, Joseph Rodriguez, and Gregory Bojorquez
