Caroline Coon's photographs of the early Punk bands, including the Sex Pistols and The Clash (whom she managed from 1978-1980), reflect her own status as intimate and insider. She has earned a unique place in British Culture: a counter-culture activist in the 1960s, a leading protagonist in the early years of British Punk and a photographer and painter. Coon also continues to work as a feminist agitator, political activist and social campaigner: particular causes include the legalising of drugs and of prostitution.

Mick Jones, lead guitarist of The Clash, is seen here staring confrontationally down the camera lens. Hand in pocket and jacket slung over his shoulder, Jones epitomises the attitude of a generation. From his scruffy hair and paint-splattered tie to the dollar sign visible on his cuff, the musician looks more like a rebellious schoolboy than a cult figure about to explode onto the international music scene.



British Photography / The Hyman Collection