A pioneering British publication, The Face Magazine, has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire today with its fearless approach to visual storytelling and boundary-pushing approach to photography.
The Dark Knight Returns by Sean Ellis, styled by Isabella Blow, August 1998.
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In the world of photography, few publications have made as significant an impact as The Face Magazine. Founded in 1980 by Nick Logan and his then-wife Julie Hillier, the magazine’s fearless approach to visual storytelling has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire today.
Launched in 1983, The Face was a British fashion magazine that revolutionized the industry with its bold and edgy approach.
Founded by Nick Logan, it quickly gained popularity for its innovative design and fearless editorials.
During its peak, The Face featured contributions from top designers, photographers, and writers, including Alexander McQueen, 'Helmut Newton', and Vivienne Westwood.
Its influence can still be seen in modern fashion media, with many considering it a pioneering force in the field.
A Pillar of British Pop Culture
The Face is often credited as a pillar of British pop culture, alongside music and art. As Lee Swillingham, a former art director for the magazine, notes, ‘British pop culture’s always been pretty much about risk-taking.‘ This mantra of innovation has driven The Face to push boundaries in its coverage of fashion, film, music, and politics.
British music has a rich history, with iconic bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones emerging in the 1960s.
The UK's vibrant music scene continued to thrive, producing influential genres such as Britpop and grime.
According to a report by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), the UK music industry generated £1.4 billion in revenue in 2020.
London remains a hub for musical innovation, with artists like Adele and Ed Sheeran achieving global success.
A Visual Language
The exhibition at London’s National Portrait Gallery, ‘Culture Shift,’ celebrates the enduring visual language of The Face. With over eighty photographers featured, including Jeanette Beckman, Elaine Constantine, Ellen Von Unwerth, Juergen Teller, Anton Corbijn, David LaChapelle, and Inez and Vinoodh, among many others, this showcase is a testament to the magazine’s commitment to showcasing unique perspectives.
A Spectrum of Popular Culture
The portraiture in ‘Culture Shift’ represents a wide spectrum of popular culture, from celebrities like Boy George, Sade, LL Cool J, Run DMC, George Michael, Madonna, Iggy Pop, and Kurt Cobain, to everyday people who were featured on the magazine’s pages. This inclusivity is a hallmark of The Face‘s approach to visual storytelling.
Popular culture refers to the customs, behaviors, and trends that are widely accepted and practiced by a society.
It encompasses music, film, television, fashion, and language.
The rise of social media has amplified popular culture's reach and influence, making it a global phenomenon.
According to a survey, 70% of millennials rely on social media for entertainment and inspiration.
Popular culture also plays a significant role in shaping societal values and norms.
A Bridge Between Past and Present
The curatorial team behind ‘Culture Shift’ has done an excellent job in giving credit to all those involved in the photo shoots, not just the photographers and models, but also the hair and makeup artists. This attention to detail helps bridge the gap between the past and present, making the exhibition accessible to both younger and older generations.
A Positive Force
The enthusiasm for ‘Culture Shift’ is palpable, with visitors praising the exhibition’s ability to introduce them to new work by photographers they may not have seen before. As Swillingham notes, ‘A lot of this stuff people will be seeing for the first time unless they’ve collected the old issues.‘ This positive feedback is a testament to The Face‘s enduring legacy and its continued relevance in today’s media landscape.
A Legacy of Risk-Taking and Innovation
The exhibition at The National Portrait Gallery is a celebration of The Face Magazine‘s boundary-pushing approach to visual storytelling. With its diverse range of photographers, subjects, and styles, ‘Culture Shift’ is a must-see for anyone interested in the world of photography and popular culture.
A Visual Archive of the Past
One of the most striking aspects of ‘Culture Shift’ is its ability to transport visitors back in time. The exhibition’s use of music, fashion, and imagery from across multiple decades creates an immersive experience that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
Modern Love by Glen Luchford, 1992.
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A Celebration of Diversity
The Face Magazine was never afraid to challenge conventional beauty norms. In Glen Luchford‘s photo Modern Love (1992), Filipino-American model and fashion designer Zaldy Goco is dressed in drag, challenging traditional notions of masculinity and beauty.
Buffalo by Jamie Morgan and Ray Petri.
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A Counterculture Movement
The exhibition also explores the Buffalo movement, a counterculture that emerged in the 1990s. This movement celebrated diversity, mixing culture, race, age, and gender in its visual storytelling. The work of photographer Jamie Morgan and stylist Ray Petri is a testament to this inclusive approach.
A Legacy of Community
The Face Magazine‘s commitment to community and collaboration has had a lasting impact on the world of photography and popular culture. As Swillingham notes, ‘I was the customer… We all hung out together.‘ This sense of community and shared passion for creative expression is at the heart of The Face Magazine‘s legacy.
Annie Lennox by Peter Ashworth, October 1983.
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A Visual Legacy That Continues to Inspire
The exhibition ‘Culture Shift’ is a testament to The Face Magazine‘s enduring visual legacy. With its diverse range of photographers, subjects, and styles, this showcase continues to inspire new generations of artists, designers, and creatives.
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