Special Event Days – 29 November 2025

Ian Fourcandles (Ian Moss) – “Why Punk Mattered to Me” (1.30 – 3pm)

Ian Moss, also known as Ian Fourcandles, was just eighteen when he stood among only twenty-eight paying attendees at the now-legendary Sex Pistols gig at Manchester’s Lesser Free Trade Hall — the night that changed music history. As vocalist for The Hamsters, Ian shared stages with The Fall and Joy Division, and later led a succession of fiercely independent bands. In the 21st century, he co-founded German Shepherd Records, fronted acclaimed bands including Sicknurse, Kill Pretty, and Four Candles, and became an author of several well-received books on music and culture.

His talk and reading, “Why Punk Mattered to Me,” reflects on the spirit of DIY rebellion, the drive for authenticity, and punk’s continuing relevance in art and society today.

Erika Rhodes – “The Politics of Punk” (12.15 – 1.15)

Join exhibition curator Erica Rhodes for a dynamic talk exploring the politics of punk — a journey through the social and political flashpoints that led to punk’s explosion in 1976. From recession and rebellion to protest and performance, this session uncovers how punk gave a voice to Britain’s disillusioned youth and reshaped art, music, and activism for generations to come

Day Tours: 11:00 – 11:30 am & 3:15 – 3:45 pm

Step inside PUNK: The Art of Rebellion with our guided tours, running twice daily for visitors who want to experience the exhibition in full colour, context, and sound.

These 30-minute tours walk you through each case and story, tracing punk’s journey from the streets of 1970s Britain to the creative activism that followed. The tours end with an interactive Q&A, inviting visitors to reflect on what rebellion means today.