Revisiting Rankin’s Revolutionary 90s
If ever there was a decade that shaped modern pop culture, it was the 90s. At the heart of this seismic shift was Rankin, the maverick lensman whose work with Dazed & Confused captured the era’s raw energy and boundary-pushing spirit. On now to June 23rd, 2024 in London, 180 Studios hosts “Back in the Dazed,” an exhibition that chronicles Rankin’s seminal work from 1991 to 2001.
Rankin’s tenure as co-founder and Photographic Editor of Dazed & Confused defined the visual aesthetics of the 90s. His editorial genius didn’t just capture moments; it created icons. This exhibition is a tour de force of his decade-long journey, showcasing how he immortalized the essence of Cool Britannia through his fearless, experimental lens.
Step into “Back in the Dazed,” and you’re transported to a world where Rankin’s camera became a revolutionary tool. He championed LGBTQIA+ representation, gave a voice to working-class youth, and blurred the lines between high culture and the everyday. Rankin’s images turned ordinary teenagers into icons and made the exclusive world of art and fashion accessible to all.
“Those early years were great for experimentation,” Rankin reminisces. “Starting out, I was like a blank canvas. We were naively fearless, doing things that changed culture. That’s when I fell in love with capturing people on medium format film.”
Ellen Stone, the exhibition’s curator, highlights the profound impact of Rankin’s work: “To understand Rankin, look no further than the pages of Dazed. It shaped his photography and, in turn, shaped others’ views of the world. Think of your favorite young actor or pop star from the 90s; chances are you’re thinking of a Rankin picture.”
“Back in the Dazed” marks the first UK retrospective of Rankin’s groundbreaking work from this pivotal decade. Each photograph is more than an image; it’s a visual manifesto that spoke volumes about the world without uttering a single word.
Rankin’s illustrious career transcends photography. His portraits of The Rolling Stones, The Queen, and countless other icons have become part of contemporary iconography. Rankin’s ventures, including the launch of AnOther and Hunger magazines, further cement his influence. His exhibitions have graced the halls of the National Portrait Gallery and MoMA, and his television projects, like “The Great British Photography Challenge,” have brought his vision to an even wider audience.
“Back in the Dazed” is a vibrant celebration of youthful creativity, seen through the eyes of a visionary who dared to be different. The exhibition at 180 Studios—a crucible for London’s burgeoning creative scene—underscores Rankin’s enduring impact on culture.
Catch this not-to-be-missed retrospective from Wednesday to Sunday, 12 PM to 7 PM on weekdays, and 11 AM to 7 PM on weekends. For tickets, visit 180studios.com/rankin.
Later,
Leticia
‘Back In the Dazed: Rankin 1991-2001”, celebrates stand-out imagery from over 200 editorial shoots by Rankin for his magazine Dazed & Confused. On display May 28th – June 23rd, 180 Studios, London. Tickets available from 180studios.com/rankin
