A Book and a Photographic Exhibition by Philippe Carly: "Au Plan K"

[Chez PIAS] is proud to present a very special exhibition by Brussels based photographer Philippe Carly.

New York had CBGB, Paris had Les Bains Douches, Amsterdam had the Paradiso, Manchester had its Haçienda... And from 1979 to 1986 the Belgian capital Brussels had Plan K, a wondrous “counter-cultural centre” housed in a former sugar refinery, and destination of choice for those seeking cutting edge music, avant-garde happenings, films, dancing, and industrial architecture.

The list of headliners at Plan K reads like a who’s who of post-punk. Joy Division, Cabaret Voltaire, William S. Burroughs, The Human League, Orange Juice, Josef K, Scritti Politti, James White, Tuxedomoon, The Sound, Front 242, Bauhaus, à;Grumh..., The Slits, Echo And The Bunnymen, The Fall and many more. Most of these legendary performances were documented by acclaimed new wave photographer Philippe Carly, who has selected the best of his work for a rich and varied book, giving readers a unique opportunity to relive these moments as if they were standing in the front row.

The absolute highlight are all 56 images he shot at two landmark shows by Joy Division at the venue on 14 October 1979 and 17 January 1980. However, he has scanned and carefully restored 300 original negatives from more than 70 different performances at Plan K. In addition, Philippe has invited musicians, journalists, collaborators, designers and spectators to share their memories and anecdotes.

“From taking these photos to designing this book it’s been a labour of love” says Philippe, who has worked on this beautiful book for 12 years.

Whether you are interested in photography and design, or simply nostalgic about some of the greatest bands of the post-punk era, this book will be what your coffee table has been waiting for. Fully bilingual (Eng/Fr), 288 pages, 12x12" size, more than 300 photos, Joy Division and 70 other acts, more than 40 reproductions of original posters and contributions from many significant players.

The exhibition at [Chez PIAS] offers a condensed overview of this massive body of work with a selection of 22 of the most significant photos from 1979 to 1986. The book will be on sale in our record shop. You can also buy it here : http://www.newwavephotos.com/APK_en.htm