This HUGE exhibition of rare and unseen images is a must-see for street photography fans - with over 700 images by Janette Beckman

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British portrait and documentary photographer Janette Beckman’s career has seen her capture Hip-Hop artists such as Run-D.M.C., to the rise of punk in seventies London. Her exhibition, ‘Rebels + Icons: The Photography of Janette Beckman,’ will open to the public next month. But many lucky members of MOPOP will be able to view Beckman’s work early in an exclusive members only preview day on May 15th in Seattle which will run until 8 September 2027.

The exhibition will feature rare archival prints, contemporary collaborations, and never before seen images. Beckman’s work focuses on a mix of fashion, street culture, activism and the energy of music. The North London born photographer grew up being surrounded by arts and culture from a very young age. Beckman has amassed an impressive resume of subjects throughout her photographic career. These include the likes of The Sexpistols and The Specials whilst working for magazines Melody Maker and The Face respectively.

Rebels + Icons will conveniently run during the same year as punk officially marks its 50th anniversary in the UK. “This is not just a retrospective, it’s a living archive of cultural movements,” said Michele Y. Smith, CEO of MOPOP. Early access members and the public will also get to experience a variation of additional offerings. These include interactive experiences and live programming that will give visitors the chance to experience what its like being behind the lens. Offering a fascinating insight into the creative and intuitive mind of Janette Beckman.

Beckman’s work consists of a delightful blend of studio and location taken imagery. The British photographer’s ability shines throughout, as her unique style and smart set up produce consistent natural looking, raw, and powerful images. From American rapper Andre 3000 being beautifully lit and composed within a studio environment, to cleverly capturing the playfulness of each band member of Hip-Hop group Leaders of the New School Union on location in Long Island. All of her subjects are comfortable being within her presence which is a testament to her skill as a photographer.

This is no more apparent than in her portrait of American singer Chaka Khan, an image that literally screams the personality of the famous songwriter. Another string that Beckman has to her bow is capturing the rawness and fearlessness personality of the iconic American rap group Public Enemy which is a true representation of their music style. A striking black and white image which is expertly lit and tightly framed to perfection.

MOPOP is a nonprofit museum in Seattle which celebrates contemporary pop culture and significant storytelling. “We could not be more thrilled to showcase such an expansive exhibition of Janette’s work. This exhibition spans decades, movements, and culture while revealing the profound impact of Janette’s photography,” said Jacob McMurray, Chief Collections and Exhibitions Officer at the museum.

Rebels + Icons: The Photography of Janette Beckman will be open to MOPOP members exclusively on May 15th which will then be available to the public and will run until 8 September 2027.