BOOTSY HOLLER: DOCUMENTING SEATTLE’S MUSIC REVOLUTION
Leica Gallery London is hosting the premiere UK exhibition of renowned photographer Bootsy Holler, featuring her compelling documentation of Seattle’s indie, rock, and punk scenes from 1992 to 2008. This exhibition captures her early work with then-emerging bands that would later become seminal figures in their genres.
Immerse yourself in Seattle’s vibrant music scene of the ’90s and early 2000s with the Leica Gallery London’s latest exhibit, “MAKING IT: An Intimate Documentary of Seattle’s Indie, Rock & Punk Scene, 1992-2008.” From September 28 to October 28, 2024, explore the raw energy and unscripted moments captured by American photographer Bootsy Holler. This UK debut not only features scenes from her upcoming monograph but also marks a pivotal moment in documenting an iconic era.
The exhibition originated from a chance encounter at Photo London 2023, where gallery director Lou Proud was struck by Holler’s gritty post-grunge snapshots. Teaming up with curator Virginia Damtsa, they have crafted an experience that dives deep into the alternative music culture that defined Seattle’s sound.
Through Holler’s lens, visitors will step into the intimate spaces of underground gigs and backstage moments with bands that would later dominate the world stage—think Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and the Foo Fighters. The exhibit also introduces rising stars from that era, like Gossip and Macklemore, showcasing their early days and raw performances.
Holler’s work is deeply personal. She shares, “I lived it: the dark days, the rain, the dampness in your bones. I supported local venues, lived with a band, drank coffee, shot heroin, got pregnant, and had an abortion. This collection is a piece of my life while trying to make it, stay alive, and survive as a working artist, just like all these musicians.”
“MAKING IT” offers more than a nostalgic look back; it’s a celebration of music’s ability to shape and define a generation. It captures a pre-digital era where no one texted during shows or snapped pictures on their phones, creating a raw and immersive experience for the viewer.
BOOTSY HOLLER: DOCUMENTING SEATTLE’S MUSIC REVOLUTION
Head down to the Leica Gallery London to experience the spirit of Seattle through Bootsy Holler’s evocative photographs. It’s a vivid journey back in time, ideal for anyone interested in the interplay of music, culture, and the stories of those who lived through it.
