Are comparisons between 21st century Street Photography and 1970's Punk rock worthy of consideration ? (see christopherjwilson.com ) . As a current Street Photographer who experienced and survived the musical uprising 40 years ago while attending Newcastle Collage Of Art I feel qualified to comment.
I see many similarities between the late 1970's and our pre-brexit Britain, the lack of optimism within society is quite reminiscent of the social conditions that inspired the anti-establishment musical response of Punk Rock to a country that was failing and offered little hope , especially to the young.
The country was divided in many ways back then just as it is now, both the political and musical establishment were perceived to be out of touch and motivated only to maintain the failing status quo, . They gave no voice to social discord, there was no appetite for change.
Nevertheless musical anarchy emerged !
One of the greatest legacies of this period was the idea of independent production of music and records and the realisation that those in positions to influence did not act in our best interests, if we wanted change we would have to drive it.
I love the idea of Street Photography being the new social response to political and cultural failure , the thought of the "X factor" generation finding a collective visual voice capable of protest at the very least and maybe even effecting social change at its best is refreshing.
Sadly , I see little evidence of main stream Street Photography ever being used in ways that portray a narrative of anger or even dissent in Britain . The pursuit of shadowy generic pictorial bollocks appears to occupy the visual sensitivities of today's new Togs , excellent technique is valued above a meaningful connection with the urban environment.
I'm very sorry to have to report that today's Street Photographers fall short when compared to the so called "Punks" of the 1970's, the "X factor" generation appears to be anaesthnastised by the digital gluttony and Simon Cowels’ "taste" in music , they appear to believe that a few "Likes" & "Retweets" on social media can change the world , it will not !
The Rock against Racism movement grew out of Punk Rock , I believe it played a major part in making this country a better place to be , real change requires real interaction with the real world, as photographers we should have a louder visual voice and much more to say about how things are in the UK.
Punk Rock and New Wave music changed the mindset of many of my generation at a time when all looked grey, the Punks had something to say , most Street Photographers appear to have little of value to say about their neighborhood or country. But will fiercely defend the merits of Japanese digital camera brands ?
Anarchy in the UK has turned to Apathy in the UK !
Keep it real , rebel a little, you might like it !