Photographer John Coles has brought together an exciting collection of original photography from the 2-tone era.

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of 2-tone The Lock Gallery is proud to be kicking off events with this exclusive look at some very iconic images.

John photographed bands such as The Specials and The Beat, and the images on display will be a collection of original, Black and White images, (many taken at The Specials' last gig) artifacts from the era, and limited edition prints of original photographs, that will be available to buy.

John Coles the man

" Born in Coventry on 1955, John attended Bishop Ullathorne RC School. With over forty years behind the lens, and sixteen of those as a wedding photographer, John sums it up in his usual ‘matter-of-fact way, “After forty years I think I can safely say that photography has long ceased to be just a hobby, it’s much more a way of life now”. As well as the 2-Tone roster, John has photographed the likes of The Adverts, The Killjoys, The Stranglers, Boomtown Rats, Ian Dury, Elvis Costello, Golden Earring, the Who, Automatics, Squad, Clash, 999, Uriah Heep, Queen,The Tubes, The Flys, The Buzzcocks and new local heroes Pint Shot Riot, The Ripps and The Enemy. His work has appeared in Sounds, and the Coventry Telegraph, and current assignments include corporate work for the likes of Jon Gaunt, the Cassidy Group. Plus charity work for Cure leukaemia, NSPCC and Acorns Hospice (receiving a citation for his work with this charity)."

foreword by Pete Chambers

The Solo exhibition begins on Friday 16th January 2009 until Saturday 31st January 2009.

Private View Thursday 15th 6pm-8pm by invitation only.

The 2-tone at 30 celebrations continue at The Lock Gallery with a Dr Sketchy 2-tone special,

rude boy model and his mod scooter!

photograph by John Coles

photograph by John Coles

photograph by John Coles

Lynval Golding at his Picture. photograph by Pete Chambers

Neville Staple, infront of his image. photograph by Yad Jaura

Ranking Roger looks at his portrait. photograph by Yad Jaura

Pauline Black looking at the two tone exhibition. photograph by Yad Jaura

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