Debbie Harry, Blondie photographed by Martyn Goddard in 1978
We were delighted to have recently visited Martyn Goddard’s “Blondie in Camera 1978” exhibition, which is currently on display at the Barbican Music Library in London. This fantastic free exhibition offers a compelling and intimate portrait of Blondie during their breakthrough year. It features around fifty carefully selected photographs taken by Martyn in New York across four major assignments in 1978, capturing the band in concert, backstage, in the studio, and during photo shoots.
Debbie Harry, Blondie photographed by Martyn Goddard in 1978
Alongside these evocative photographs, the show includes a rich array of memorabilia: vintage posters and album covers, tour paraphernalia, and even the very cameras Goddard used. One of the most striking pieces on display is Debbie Harry’s daring portrait licking (or “kissing,” in Goddard’s words) an LP — the exhibition even includes the actual record and emphasizes how its cover was famously printed in reverse.
Debbie Harry photographed by Martyn Goddard in 1978
Many of these artefacts have been generously loaned by Alan Edwards, Blondie’s long-time PR agent, adding depth to the narrative by connecting the visual material to the real machinery of the band’s early career. Artist Morgan Howell has contributed a large-scale replica of the “Heart of Glass” single, bringing a playful and bold three-dimensional energy to the installation.
Morgan Howell limited print of his 'Heart of Glass' supersized artwork
Martyn reflects on the exhibition as a “visual snapshot of a key moment,” describing the images as infused with Blondie’s signature energy, rawness, and style. It’s a vivid and nostalgic journey into the late ’70s New Wave scene — both for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Debbie Harry photographed by Martyn Goddard in 1978
In celebration of Martyn's fantastic exhibition, we have added two of the prints showcased to our collection. These are a limited edition contact sheet print featuring sixteen images of Blondie and Debbie Harry shot by Martyn during his time working with the band and a stunning portrait of Debbie Harry stood on the roof of the Gramercy Park Hotel in New York.
You can find these and our full collection of Martyn's 1978 Blondie limited edition prints on our website. Exhibtion runs until mid-February 2026.