Bad Brains and Shepard Fairey Collaboration, ‘Banned in Babylon: The Art and Culture of Bad Brains’ Opens at Subliminal Projects

Sandra Miska

The legacy of American hardcore punk band Bad Brains is being celebrated with a unique exhibit at Subliminal Projects in Los Angeles. “Banned in Babylon: The Art and Culture of Bad Brains” features paintings and works on paper by bassist Darryl Jenifer, photographs by band photographer Lucian Perkins, John Mousheghian and Jeannie “Aunt Jean” Pawlowski, as well as prints and additional mixed-media paintings by gallery founder Shepard Fairey, a lifelong fan of the group who created the cover art for their 2012 album “Into the Future.” The exhibit also features as assortment of Bad Brains memorabilia, including rare vintage fliers, posters and records.

Originally in formed Washington, D.C. as a jazz-fusion ensemble called Mind Power, Bad Brains changed their name in 1977 and developed a fast, intense punk sound that came to be known as hardcore. Inspired by Bob Marley, the band also experimented with reggae.

Bad Brains released a total of nine studio albums, and after multiple hiatuses and line-up changes, the group currently consists of classic members Jenifer, singer/guitarist H.R., guitarist Dr. Know, and drummer Earl Hudson. Although they may not be a household name, the group has influenced innumerable musicians.

In addition to “Banned in Babyblon,” Fairey will also be debuting the OBEY Clothing x Bad Brains collaboration. OBEY is the popular streetwear line Fairey founded in 2001 as an extension of his work as an activist. The designer incorporates politically and socially provocative images into his clothes that have been deemed controversial. This new line, which is currently available to purchase on the official OBEY site and will be sold in stores worldwide beginning this fall, contains a mix of classic Bad Brains graphics, new designs by Fairey, as well as photographs shot by Perkins.

“The goal was to make new images that refer to Bad Brains’ history and authenticity, but also add some Obey flavor in both the artwork and the clothing,” stated Fairey on the Subliminal Projects website.

“Banned in Babylon: The Art and Culture of Bad Brains” will be at Subliminal Projects July 23 – Aug. 20.