‘Here We Are’ exhibition by Burberry

As September rolls around so does London Fashion Week and with that the introduction of Burberry’s latest exhibition, Here We Are – a celebration of British photography, curated by Christopher Bailey, Lucy Kumara Moore and Alasdair McLellan.

Exploring “the British way of life” through work from over 30 of the 20th century’s most prized social and documentary photographers, the exhibition features Martin Parr, Shirley Baker, Karen Knorr, Ken Russell and Charlie Phillips, all selected by the team of curators.

“When we started thinking about curating Here We Are, I knew I wanted it to celebrate a certain strand of British photography that I have always loved – one that documents the many and varied tribes and clans and classes that make up this island of ours.”

~ Christopher Bailey

Taking place across three floors in the rooms of Old Sessions House in Clerkenwell, the exhibition backdrop was previously used as a public gathering place/courthouse in the upmarket area. The Grade II* listed building has been left largely untouched with the beautiful architecture speaking for itself, the patina of aged stone and plasterwork acting as a reminder of the building’s long, storied history.

Neon lighting, bold graphics and Burberry’s signature check further accentuate the features within the 17,700-square-foot space while the addition of furniture from British craft furniture brand Another Country showcases the craftsmanship that the design team at Burberry tend to focus on.

Themes have taken over the exhibition with rooms sectioned by their era and culture. For example, a room full of flowers accompanies floral photographs and projected club culture imagery works alongside the interior architecture of the building.

“I have long been enchanted by British “social portraiture” – photography that reveals the ways in which we live, work, dream, celebrate and challenge – both individually and collectively.’

~ Lucy Kumara Moore, curator of ‘Here We Are’

Alongside the exhibition of imagery and the September 2017 Burberry collection, visitors can also peruse the Claire de Rouen bookstore or grab a bite to eat at the Burberry restaurant, Thomas’s where a beautiful menu of delectable treats awaits. Honestly, I’ve had the pancakes and they’re bloomin’ tasty.

The Burberry exhibitions have long shown the luxury house’s commitment to makers and great design with a focus on work, craft, process, history and most importantly expressing something. But, it doesn’t stop there. Christopher Bailey has long championed the music scene and with the introduction of Burberry Acoustic, young artists have continually represented the Burberry lifestyle by donning the brand’s garments and singing their hearts out both online and at various events.

Here We Are has a rolling schedule of acoustic acts over the course of the week and while you’re too late to catch her now, one of those wonderful beings happened to be my pal Shannon Wardrop, pictured looking beautiful in a Burberry military jacket and safari-style dress below. Fret not, you can still catch her existing Burberry Acoustic session.

The clothes, the music, the aesthetic, right through to the furniture choices, the exhibition is wonderfully executed and a must-see this weekend for the last few days. Once you’ve gone, I can promise you that plaster walls will be on your mind forever more, as will all the beautiful clothes, obviously.

INFO: Until 1st October, 10am – 9pm
22 Clerkenwell Green, London, EC1
Nearest Tube: Farringdon