"CONTACT HIGH: A Visual History of Hip-Hop" Exhibit Spotlights Iconic Portraits
Rare photos of Notorious B.I.G., Kendrick Lamar and more.
Inspired by the revered book of the same name, “CONTACT HIGH: A Visual History” is a massive photo exhibition that spotlights 140 rare works from 60 acclaimed photographers in the music industry curated by Vikki Tobak.
On view at the Annenberg Space for Photography, the sprawling presentation celebrates the work of hip-hop photographers including Barron Claiborne, Brian “B+” Cross, Eric Coleman, Estevan Oriol, Janette Beckman, among others. Highlights include Barron Claiborne’s iconic Notorious B.I.G. portraits and throwback snapshots of Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, and Kanye West before they became big names; Janette Beckman’s photos of Salt-N-Pepa; as well as insights into Jamel Shabazz and Gordon Parks’ documentarian approach to photographing hip-hop culture.
Accompanying the photographs are archival videos, memorabilia, and music to demonstrate “how the documentation of a cultural phenomenon impacts politics, culture and social movements around the world,” as per the institute. Not to mention, a pop-up record shop selling rare vinyl records is also part of the showcase.
View select works above and then visit the official website of the Annenberg Space for Photography to learn more. The exhibition is on view until August 18.
The Annenberg Space for Photography
2000 Avenue of the Stars
Los Angeles, CA 90067
