2 minutes read
What is hip-hop? Throwback to the early stage of a cultural and artistic movement born in the South Bronx. Discover how, in the early 70s, photographers captured this new genre to make it a global phenomenon.
Here is a look at “Contact High” by Vikki Tobak and Fab 5 Freddy.
-
Hip-hop: sound, style, and culture
Hip-hop emerged from different cities across the United States in the 70s. Each regional individuality shaped this cultural movement. From music, dance to graffiti artist, hip hop was the self-expression from the street. It also impacted fashion with some emblematic items like athletic jersey, Nike air force 1, sneakers, skateboarding fashion, etc.


-
Photographer and beyond
Photographers were the first to immortalize this movement. They shaped a specific image of artists to communicate and market them to the world.
The selection of images and contact sheet are a testimony of their work. Most of them are now iconic for hip-hop culture.



-
Highlights
Women in hip-hop
Hip-hop music was a male drive industry when some women stood upon the scene. Thanks to their unique voices, storytelling, style, and lyrics, they have established their position in hip-hop’s world. Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliot, Queen Latifah, Nicki Minaj, Cardi B are among these influent women.

The “class photo”: A great day in hip-hop
If we can select only one picture to highlight hip hop, a “great day in hip hop” would be the one. For XXL Magazine, Gordon Parks photographed 2OO hip-hop artists in Harlem. It was in 1998 when hip hop was already a worldwide phenomenon.

Plan your visit:
- Exhibit on view from April 26TH through August 18th.
- Location: 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067.
- Hours: Wed-Sun 11AM-6PM.
- Admission: Free
- Duration: I spent 1h30 hour to discover it.
- Audio guide available and guided tour on Saturdays and Sundays at 3 pm.
- Parking: $1.50 with validation
- More information available at https://www.annenbergphotospace.org/