“Glam: The Performance of Style” at TATE Liverpool
by SARAH O’HARA
looprevilpress@live.co.uk
Glam’s influence on Popular Culture is unprecedented. It’s visual and musical styles have been adopted by countless others across the decades, most recently in the performances of bands Goldfrapp, the Scissor Sisters and of course, the phenomenal Lady Gaga. Celebrated in television and film, TATE Liverpool is the latest institution to give us a taste of its cultural legacy in a superbly curated exhibition.
My mouth dropped in awe as I entered the exhibition. An original costume worn by the insatiable Brian Eno adorned the wall; its feathers, sequins and satin instantly transporting me to the early 1970’s. Of course, what truly caught my attention were the numerous Anthony Price costumes. As an avid Duran Duran fan, I was highly aware that their suits for the infamous ‘Rio’ video had been designed by Anthony Price, only further cementing the link between Glam Rock and its legacy on popular music and its visual style. Witnessing costumes designed by this infamous name, and worn by icons such as Bryan Ferry were only the beginning of a vibrant and exhilarating journey through Glam.
The exhibition focused on a variety of integral factors in the development of Glam, including Art Schools and the avant-garde movement. In addition to catalogues of work by students who attended the Royal College of Art, London in the early 1970’s, the exhibition also incorporated a student film about Roxy Music fans. Lovingly crafted, it was a testament to the cultural impact that Glam Rock bands had on the lives of many young adolescents, and was an inspiration to myself as music student. Strolling through the exhibition, I also found myself in a room playing Glam Rock music, decorated with feather boas and a revolving disco ball. It was perfect bliss.
What I loved about this exhibition was the exploration of Glam’s impact both in the UK, and in the USA. I have rarely seen a documentary or exhibition that explores Glam within the USA, so it was an utter delight to finally see. A particular highlight was an installation featuring 4 television screens, each producing moving images of individual ‘Velvet Underground’ band members. Of course, the addition of articles promoting Andy Warhol and his theatre works were rare to see, and I was glad to have witnessed them.
Sadly, this exhibition has now come to an end. I feel privileged to have attended, and thank TATE Liverpool for re-igniting my love of Glam Rock Music. Let’s hope another fabulous Glam exhibition is not too far away…
Looprevil Press 