Anne Massey and Ben Cranfield in conversation

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On the 60th anniversary of the Independent Group, and in the light of tomorrow's conference - BUNK, curator Anne Massey talks to Ben Cranfield and asks why now? Why at the ICA?

The Group represents a key moment in the history of British art and architecture. Although it only met between 1952-5, the issues explored by the members, including architects Alison and Peter Smithson, James Stirling and Colin St John Wilson; artists Magda Cordell, Richard Hamilton, Nigel Henderson, John McHale, Eduardo Paolozzi and Nigel Henderson; and writers Lawrence Alloway, Reyner Banham and Toni del Renzio, continue to resonate today.

The history of the Independent Group has come under increased scrutiny internationally over the past ten years, and this event will provide an opportunity for researchers to meet and share their enthusiasm with each other and with a broader audience at the ICA.

Professor Anne Massey is a leading expert in the interdisciplinary history and contemporary significance of the Independent Group. A new edition of her book on the Independent Group is available though our Bookshop.

Dr. Ben Cranfield is a writer and Lecturer in Arts Policy and Management and coordinator of Birkbeck’s undergraduate programmes in Arts Management. His PhD thesis undertook an archival analysis of the ICA.