For one night only this May, Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture is transforming into an ’80s-era New York City dance club. On Friday, May 15, MOPOP will host the Rebels + Icons Opening Party, an immersive celebration marking the debut of Rebels + Icons: The Photography of Janette Beckman.
Running from 7 to 10:30 p.m., the 21+ event promises a full sensory experience inspired by the streets, music scenes, and creative communities Beckman has documented throughout her iconic career. Guests can expect soft lounge seating, turntables, vintage amplifiers, live graffiti art, and a soundtrack curated by a lineup of DJs, all emceed by Seattle’s own Wanz.
The evening also features interactive activities designed to pull visitors directly into Beckman’s world. Attendees can meet the photographer during a book signing, participate in an exhibition scavenger hunt for prizes, and contribute to a collaborative wheat-pasting installation led by local artist Aaron Asis. Additional programming includes voter registration, educational resources and “Know Your Rights” materials, plus a multimedia documentary screening created by MOPOP.
VIPs and members will get access to a private lounge with drinks and bites, along with entry to MOPOP’s Member Preview Day earlier that Friday.
Janette Beckman is widely recognized for capturing defining moments in music and street culture, photographing icons like Run-D.M.C., Salt-N-Pepa, and LL Cool J, while also documenting British punk in the 1970s and hip-hop culture in 1980s New York. MOPOP’s new exhibition Rebels + Icons is the most comprehensive collection of her work ever assembled, featuring more than 500 photographs, archival materials, and immersive installations spanning four decades.
Admission for the opening party ranges from $30 to $75. The exhibit opens to MOPOP members on May 15 and to the general public on Saturday, May 16. More info on the museum website.
