New exhibition opens in London

The Face: A Cultural Touchstone

A new exhibition at London’s National Portrait Gallery celebrates the legacy of The Face magazine, a groundbreaking publication that reigned supreme in British youth culture from 1980 to 2004. Enthusiasts and fashion historians alike gather to delve into the magazine’s archival treasures and reminisce about its indelible impact on style, music, and artistic expression.

From Print to Digital Dominance

The exhibition, aptly titled “The Face Magazine: Culture Shift,” showcases iconic photography that captured the essence of the era’s burgeoning celebrity culture. Featured prominently are portraits of legendary figures like Kate Moss,David Bowie,and the iconic band Blur,embodying the era’s most influential musicians and artists. The Face, often described as a “cult British magazine,” transcended its role as a mere fashion publication, becoming a cultural phenomenon that shaped the tastes and perspectives of an entire generation.

“The Face was probably the most influential magazine when it came to style culture,” states Ekow Eshun, former assistant editor of The Face.

A Time Before Social Media

In the pre-internet and pre-social media landscape, magazines like The Face wielded immense influence. Their carefully crafted pages set trends, introduced emerging artists, and chronicled the ever-evolving social and cultural landscape.

More Than Just Fashion

The Face’s influence extended far beyond the realm of fashion. It championed new music,introduced innovative artistic styles,and fostered a sense of rebellion and individuality among its young readership. The magazine became a platform for emerging talent, giving voice to artists and designers who would go on to shape the cultural landscape.

A Resurgence of a Legacy

The magazine’s impact continues to resonate today. in 2019, The Face was relaunched both in print and online, a testament to its enduring relevance and influence. This new iteration of The Face seeks to capture the spirit of its predecessor while adapting to the digital age,ensuring that its legacy continues to inspire new generations.

Revisit the Iconic

The National Portrait Gallery’s exhibition invites visitors to revisit The Face’s iconic photography,re-experience the era’s cultural zeitgeist,and gain a deeper understanding of the magazine’s enduring impact on fashion,music,and youth culture.

If you could sum up The Face’s impact on British youth culture in one word, what would it be?

the Face: A Cultural Touchstone – An Interview with Fashion Historian, Amelia Sterling

In the heart of London, the National Portrait Gallery is currently hosting a captivating exhibition, “The Face Magazine: Culture Shift.” We sat down with renowned fashion historian and cultural critic, Amelia sterling, too discuss the enduring legacy of The Face magazine and its impact on British youth culture.

From Print to Digital Dominance

Archyde (A): Amelia, The face magazine was a cultural phenomenon from 1980 to 2004.What made it so influential?

Amelia Sterling (AS): The Face was more than just a fashion magazine; it was a cultural barometer. It captured the essence of the times, from the rise of youth culture in the 80s to the Britpop explosion in the 90s. Its striking photography and fearless journalism set it apart, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the British cultural landscape.

A Time Before Social Media

A: In an era before social media, how did magazines like The Face shape public opinion and set trends?

AS: Magazines like The Face had immense power. they curated culture, introducing readers to new music, art, and fashion. With no digital distractions, people trusted and engaged with print media deeply. The Face didn’t just reflect trends; it created them.

More Than Just Fashion

A: The Face’s influence extended far beyond fashion.How did it impact music and artistic expression?

AS: The Face was a platform for new music and emerging artists. It championed everything from punk rock to electronic dance music. Through its pages, it fostered a sense of rebellion and individuality, encouraging readers to express themselves and challenge the status quo.

A Resurgence of a Legacy

A: The Face was relaunched in 2019. Why do you think its legacy continues to resonate today?

AS: The Face’s legacy is about more than just fashion or music; it’s about freedom of expression and cultural democracy. In an era where everyone can be a creator, but not everyone can be heard, The Face’s commitment to discovering and amplifying new voices feels more relevant than ever.

Revisit the Iconic

A: The National Portrait Gallery’s exhibition invites visitors to revisit The Face’s iconic photography. What do you hope visitors take away from this experience?

AS: I hope visitors leave inspired. Inspired by the creativity and courage of The Face’s team, inspired by the artists and designers it launched, and inspired to seek out and support the cultural voices of today and tomorrow.

A: Amelia, thank you for your insights. before we wrap up, we have a thought-provoking question for you. If you could sum up The Face’s impact on british youth culture in one word, what would it be?

AS: Empowering. The Face empowered its readers to express themselves, to challenge, to create.That’s a powerful legacy.

Stay tuned for more insights into the world of fashion, culture, and history here on Archyde.