As the David Bailey’s East End exhibition opens, the photographer tells John O’ Ceallaigh about working with cannibals, Victoria Beckham and how ‘swinging sixties’ London was like a war zone.
“I tried New York, Paris, LA, even put my toes in Tokyo, but there’s no place like London – it’s the greatest city on Earth.”
The Rio Club 1968 © David Bailey
It seems an appropriate time for the photographer to reflect on his association with the capital. We’ve arranged to speak about his newly opened exhibition, David Bailey’s East End, showcasing pictures he took throughout East London in the 1960s, the ‘80s and in the last few years. Looking back at all of those images must have been a poignant experience. I ask him what he missed most about his hometown during all that time spent away. “The aggravation, the nastiness, the jealousy, the misery – it all makes a whole, doesn’t it.”
Part of CREATE’s 2012 summer programme and supported by London Borough of Newham, David Bailey’s East End continues at Compressor House, Royal Docks, Dockside Road, Newham, London E16 2QD until August 5. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11am-7pm (until 9.30pm on Thursdays and Fridays). Entry is £4-£6 or free for Newham residents with approved forms of ID.
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