Big Issue marks 50 years of Punk with special edition, exhibitions and fundraiser

Big Issue is celebrating half a century of Punk with a new special edition on sale today (Monday 09 March), looking back at the past 50 years with some of the scene’s most prolific artists, and contemplating its future with two of its most exciting rising stars.

Renowned artist Mark Denton, director of the award-winning creative agency COY!, has created new striking cover artwork for the special edition – a punk-inspired Mohican formed entirely from birthday candles, dramatically set alight for the photo.

The special includes archive interviews with the punk scene’s most recognisable names, including John Lydon (Sex Pistols), Debbie Harry (Blondie), Paul Simonon (The Clash) and Terry Hall (The Specials).

Rising stars The Molotovs – made up of teenage siblings Mathew and Issey Cartlidge – also speak exclusively to Big Issue about how they’re keeping the punk flame alive.

The special edition is on sale in line with two new exhibitions celebrating 50 years of Punk in Camden, London, both of which are raising money for the Big Issue.

Picture This: A Public Image is open until 11^th March at Camden Open Air Gallery, while The Art of Anarchy: 50 Years of Punk by Haus of Lucy opens 13^th March.

The public can enter a prize draw to win original artworks and limited-edition screen prints worth up to £2,500. Tickets cost £10 and the winners will be announced on March 31^st.

Steven McKenzie, Deputy Editor of the Big Issue, said: “Punk has always challenged power and amplified voices that go unheard. That’s something we understand at Big Issue. For 35 years, we’ve created opportunities for people affected by poverty to earn and rebuild their lives and give their voice a platform so those in power listen.

“Celebrating 50 years of punk with Camden Open Air Gallery feels right – it’s culture with a conscience. And through the raffle, we’re turning that energy into real support for vendors working their way out of poverty.”

The 50 years of punk raffle can be entered on the Camden Open Air Gallery website: https://50yearsofpunk.club/