Evolving dramatically over the course of its 56 editions in 34 years (so far), from punk poetry fanzine into DIY manifesto; from a celebration of discarded things into a celebration of discarded communities, from heartfelt memorial to ranting pamphlet, the series functions as a repository of low budget reprographics and an uncompromising chronicle of real lives lived in strange times.
Liver and Lights also incorporates a wide range of one-off works of art and related projects, most notably the band Bonesandtheaft, who interpret and illuminate the books through music and live performance, augmented by handmade recordings, props, stage sets and costumes.
This Show and Tell will explore highlights from the series alongside other related publications from Tate Library selected by John Bently, with Jane Bramwell, and Anna Golodnitsky.