London-based photographer Simon Wheatley has built a pristine reputation for capturing the capital’s underground creative scenes. Hot off the heels of his grime-championing Corteiz collaboration, the British photographer is bringing the streets of London to Bond Street’s Leica Gallery in a raw and emotional exhibition.
Dubbed Silverlink, the photography exhibition will celebrate London’s dynamic hip-hop and grime legacy through intimate, community-oriented shots. Silverlink was formed over 12 years, seeing Wheatley initially travel the “North London Line” in the late ’90s. The shuttered railway was later rebranded as the Silverlink train system, utilizing its pathways to unravel London’s hidden youth discovered in uncommon areas.
While traversing the UK suburbs, Wheatley documented the socioeconomic barriers that separate London-based communities. The photographer paused after the British government failed to reestablish the 1993 Railways Act, which promised the reconstruction of British Railways Boards.
The never-before-seen photographs will be showcased at Leica Gallery in London and printed for the first time. Simon Wheatley’s Silverlink exhibition will be open from May 17 to July 21 at 64-66 Duke St, London W1K 6JD.
