Liz Johnson Artur's photographs capture the essence of a bygone London queer club scene, where fluidity and inclusivity reigned supreme. The popular PDA club night, which ran from 2011 to 2021 in a Hackney basement, was a haven for self-expression and community building. Johnson Artur, who has been photographing "the people I'm with" for over three decades, found herself drawn to the vibrant energy of PDA events.
Her black and white and color photographs, taken over several years, reveal party-goers in all their glory – thigh-high boots, sweat-drenched bodies, cigarettes, smiles, and Schweppes. The images seem to pulse with the rhythm of a bassline, transporting viewers into the midst of the action. Johnson Artur's subjects are often posed in lavish outfits, exuding confidence that belies the hostility they face outside.
One recurring figure in her pictures is Carrie Stacks, the night's co-founder DJ and nightlife icon. These intimate, daytime images showcase the close-knit community beyond the club, where trust and respect reign supreme. "When people see you and they trust you, they give," Johnson Artur says, highlighting the beauty of her photographs.
Johnson Artur's own story is one of self-discovery and resilience. Raised by a Russian mother in Germany, she developed an eye for capturing human existence through her lens. Her archive, numbering thousands of images, celebrates beauty, community, and resistance. The photographer's German upbringing instilled in her the importance of quality over quantity – every picture counts.
The collaboration with PDA organizers was not without its challenges. Johnson Artur had to let go of her stringent standards, embracing a more collaborative approach. "It's an interesting process," she says. "You can't just collaborate and get what you want; you have to open up."
PDA charts the photographer's evolving role in the community, from aunty figure to trusted ally. The book is a testament to the fleeting nature of life – a reminder to cherish every moment. As Johnson Artur notes, "We're only here for a minute. Let's enjoy it."
Her black and white and color photographs, taken over several years, reveal party-goers in all their glory – thigh-high boots, sweat-drenched bodies, cigarettes, smiles, and Schweppes. The images seem to pulse with the rhythm of a bassline, transporting viewers into the midst of the action. Johnson Artur's subjects are often posed in lavish outfits, exuding confidence that belies the hostility they face outside.
One recurring figure in her pictures is Carrie Stacks, the night's co-founder DJ and nightlife icon. These intimate, daytime images showcase the close-knit community beyond the club, where trust and respect reign supreme. "When people see you and they trust you, they give," Johnson Artur says, highlighting the beauty of her photographs.
Johnson Artur's own story is one of self-discovery and resilience. Raised by a Russian mother in Germany, she developed an eye for capturing human existence through her lens. Her archive, numbering thousands of images, celebrates beauty, community, and resistance. The photographer's German upbringing instilled in her the importance of quality over quantity – every picture counts.
The collaboration with PDA organizers was not without its challenges. Johnson Artur had to let go of her stringent standards, embracing a more collaborative approach. "It's an interesting process," she says. "You can't just collaborate and get what you want; you have to open up."
PDA charts the photographer's evolving role in the community, from aunty figure to trusted ally. The book is a testament to the fleeting nature of life – a reminder to cherish every moment. As Johnson Artur notes, "We're only here for a minute. Let's enjoy it."
she's capturing this beautiful energy and sense of community that's so rare in the world today I mean, who needs all that drama and toxicity when you can have people just embracing themselves and living their best lives? 
her photos are like a time capsule of a bygone era, but also really relevant to what's going on now. I love how she's not afraid to get up close and personal with her subjects – it's so refreshing to see artists doing their own thing and not just following the crowd. PDA is more than just a club night, it's a movement 
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ur right though carrie stacks is like the queen of london nightlife what happened to her after pdas ended? did she just fade away or did she find other ways to make an impact 
. And the way she tells Carrie Stacks' story is just incredible 
. I also love how Liz Johnson Artur talks about the importance of letting go and collaborating - as creatives & change-makers, we can learn so much from her approach 
. This book is more than just a collection of photos - it's a reminder to live in the moment, cherish our time with loved ones, and celebrate the beauty of community 
I wish Liz Johnson Artur could come visit our school and take some photos of us too! 
... I mean, I get why Liz Johnson Artur wanted to capture the essence of that scene, but are we really celebrating a party culture that's all about self-expression and community building? Or is it just a bunch of people getting drunk and wild in a basement 
... anyway, I guess it's cool that Liz Johnson Artur is sharing her photos and experiences, but I'm still not convinced by the whole PDA scene 
. And can we talk about Carrie Stacks for a sec? 
... it's just so beautiful. And can we talk about Carrie Stacks for a sec? 
these images are not just about the parties, they're about the people and their stories, their struggles and triumphs 
it's so important to hold onto that sense of community and acceptance in today's world 
we need more of this kind of art and activism in our lives! 
! The way she captures the energy and vibes is 
incredible! And Carrie Stacks is serving up those fierce outfits 
. It's amazing to see how her photography celebrates self-expression and community, it's like she's giving us permission to be ourselves and let loose 
I love how her photos show these people as confident and unapologetic, despite facing so much hostility outside 
These PDA club night photos are straight fire 
! And Carrie Stacks is a total icon 
The way she captures the community and their self-expression is truly inspiring. And I love how her photos transport you into the scene - it's like being right there on the dance floor!