From May 17 to July 21, 2024, the Leica Gallery London will host “Silverlink,” an exhibition featuring the work of renowned London-based photographer Simon Wheatley. This series represents a pivotal period from 1998 to 2010, where Wheatley documented the transformation of the North London Line into Silverlink following its privatisation. Through his lens, Wheatley explores the diverse, often polarised neighbourhoods along this railway, initially spurred by his interest in social disparities but later evolving into a broader narrative about the city’s dynamics during the Blair years.
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Simon Wheatley’s name is synonymous with powerful urban photography, particularly noted for his book ‘Don’t Call Me Urban! The Time of Grime,’ which deeply influences the UK’s photographic scene. His work with the Kodachrome film adds a poignant layer to his photographs, connecting his methodology with legendary photographers like Bruce Davidson, who similarly used this medium for profound urban narratives.
The exhibition will reveal a personal and expansive view of London, delving into Wheatley’s interactions and experiences across the city. One notable story from his journeys is his meeting with Barry, a former antiques shop owner in Portobello Road, whose life story encapsulates the harsh realities of urban economic changes.
Visitors to the Leica Gallery can expect to see 21 carefully selected images from the Silverlink series, all captured using the Leica M system and displayed for the first time. These images, along with signed copies of Wheatley’s book ‘Silverlink’, are available for purchase.
Price: Prices vary for photographs and books, available upon request at the exhibition.
For more information on the exhibition please visit Leica Gallery London