Author: Trusha Naidoo

Date: 3rd August 2016

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Yes, I did check out Exhibitionism at the Saatchi Gallery. It’s true: I’m not a massive fan. But I went with a fan. That counts. Right?

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Elevator pitch? Think multi-media, deep dive into the slinky world of the Stones. With over 50 years of shared history, it must have been a challenge to curate! Their story features works by Andy Warhol, Alexander McQueen, Ossie Clark, David Bailey, Jeff Koons and Martin Scorsese, amongst others.

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As you meander through, Keith fizzes on guitar, Charlie keeps the beat and Mick, well, he’s got the moves. One thing is for sure, they are not shy of spectacle or excess. So rock ‘n roll. No? See what I mean here: https://www.youtube.com watch?v=yJbahAv8hHU

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Seeing a montage of the highs and lows of the Stones on a wall of screens throws you headlong into their headspace. Getting the crowd perspective in 3-D, takes the full fan effect to the next level. The reconstruction of Olympic Studios, where they recorded “Sympathy for the Devil,” gives you a handson sense of what it’s like to mix one of their tracks. More bass, anyone?

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For design freaks, there’s an entire room dedicated to their famous logo. Obvs. The exhibition even recreates the humble one-bedroom flat shared by Jagger, Jones, Richards and a friend in Edith Grove. I didn’t expect that from a band that’s all about the brand. Did you?

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Unlike the Bowie exhibition, which leaves you in awe of his chameleonic nature as an artist, the Stones have stuck to what they do best. Being “the world’s greatest rock band”. Don’t take my word for it, here’s what Time Out had to say, http://www.timeout.com/london/music/the-rolling-stonesexhibitionism

 

Looking at the stage set ups, out there costumes and playing around with their tracks, you realise their music is embedded in the soundtracks of so many of our lives. Whether you’re a fan or not, you’ll get some satisfaction. I promise. Exhibitionism runs until September 2016.