The Face Magazine: Culture Shift

As the National Portrait Gallery’s survey of photography from The Face magazine opened to ecstatic reviews, the magazine’s founder/editor Nick Logan and first art director Neville Brody met for a rare live interview. We’re excited to share a recording of their conversation.

Logan made his name editing New Musical Express and then launching Smash Hits; unable to get backing for his new magazine, he launched The Face himself, in 1980. After a few issues, Brody joined as art director. They discuss how they met, how they worked together, that New Order cover and how The Face influenced a generation.

The conversation took place at the National Portrait Gallery on Thursday 20 February 2025, and was chaired by The Face features editor Kathryn Flett.

‘The Face Magazine: Culture Shift’ continues until 18 May, and is accompanied by a large format book of 200 images from the show.

We’re grateful to the NPG team for making this recording available.