The exhibit “Looking at Music: Side 2” was about punk rock, which originated in NYC in the 1970s. It was a response to the Vietnam War and government policies. The artists of this time challenged conventions by resorting to grit, grime and garages. Their philosophies revolved around anti-establishment ideals; however, this was not reflected properly in the exhibit. The white walls and careful encasing of the artifacts reflected the submission of punk rock to established conventions.
The pieces in the exhibit itself were interesting. I especially noted the magazine clippings and interviews with the artists of the time. The style of writing and organization of the text, pictures, etc was very lax. The informality of the interviews subtly reflected the punk beliefs of anti-convention. I also really enjoyed the music clips, especially from Blondie. They contributed tremendously to the exhibit since punk rock is most commonly known in its musical form.
Mapping the punk rock establishments was fun and enlightening. Discovering that these infamous establishments (pun intended) are right here in our city, passing by them on our way to work and school, hearing their influences in the music of today and knowing that world-renowned artists lived and played in these very streets just adds to the allure of New York City.
