For the first time, the most comprehensive collection of Jill Furmanovsky's legendary Oasis photographs is being unveiled, offering an unparalleled journey through the band's meteoric rise. The exhibition, titled 'Oasis: Mad For It', presents over 150 images that chronicle a decade of rock 'n' roll history, from sweaty early gigs to the height of their stadium-conquering fame.
An Insider's View of Britpop's Defining Band
Furmanovsky, renowned as one of rock's greatest photographers, enjoyed a unique position as the band's official photographer from 1994 to the band's dissolution. This privileged access allowed her to capture not just the public spectacle, but the private moments that defined the Gallagher brothers and their bandmates. The collection includes everything from candid backstage shots and intense recording sessions to the chaotic whirlwind of life on the road.
From the Boardwalk to Knebworth: A Photographic Timeline
The exhibition is a visual narrative of Oasis's journey. It begins with gritty, black-and-white images of their early days at venues like Manchester's Boardwalk, radiating a raw, youthful ambition. This contrasts powerfully with the later, colour-saturated panoramas of historic performances, such as the monumental 1996 Knebworth concerts that cemented their status as cultural icons.
Highlights of the collection include:
- Never-before-seen negatives from the '(What's the Story) Morning Glory?' era.
- Intimate portraits revealing the complex dynamic between Liam and Noel Gallagher.
- Striking live shots that perfectly encapsulate the explosive energy of their performances.
- Behind-the-scenes moments that show the band away from the glare of the spotlight.
A Testament to Trust and Timing
What makes Furmanovsky's work so compelling is the palpable sense of trust between photographer and subject. Her images feel less like posed promotions and more like a genuine documentary of a band living at a hundred miles an hour. She was there for the triumphs, the tensions, and the sheer madness that accompanied their ascent, creating a visual archive that is as authentic as it is artistic.
This exhibition is not just a treat for Oasis devotees; it's a significant cultural record of 1990s Britain. It captures the spirit of a decade where guitar music ruled the charts and a working-class band from Manchester could become the biggest in the world. 'Oasis: Mad For It' is a powerful reminder of why this band mattered, told through the lens of the woman who saw it all.
