An intimate evening of photography, stories and music celebrating The Cure ahead of the Isle of Wight Festival 2026.
Last week, music lovers and press gathered at Iconic Images Gallery in London for a special evening celebrating Sky Presents the Isle of Wight Festival 2026 and its headline act, The Cure. The event marked the launch of a photo exhibition and featured an engaging panel discussion with some of the key figures behind the imagery and storytelling of one of rock’s most iconic bands.
Curated by acclaimed photographers Kevin Cummins and Richard Bellia, the exhibition showcases striking images that capture The Cure’s evolution from post-punk upstarts to enduring legends. Cummins, whose work helped define the visual identity of British alternative music, presented images from the band’s early days, while Bellia offered a more intimate visual perspective, highlighting the moments between performances and behind the scenes.
The evening also featured a live conversation with Simon Price, author of Curepedia, who shared his insights into the band’s cultural impact and enduring connection with fans, alongside John Giddings, organiser of the Isle of Wight Festival, who offered context on The Cure’s role as Sunday’s headliners at this year’s festival.
Guests were treated to stories and reflections that went beyond what appears on stage or in print. The discussion showcased not only the legendary status of The Cure, but also the craft of music photography and the ways artists and photographers collaborate to cement musical legacies.
The exhibition is open to the public at Iconic Images Gallery until February 2, 2026, offering fans and visitors the chance to explore this rich visual history up close.
The celebration ties directly into the build-up to the Isle of Wight Festival 2026, which runs June 18–21 at Seaclose Park, Newport, featuring a powerhouse lineup. Headliners include The Cure closing the festival on Sunday, with Lewis Capaldi and Calvin Harris topping the bill on Friday and Saturday respectively, alongside a diverse roster of artists across genres.
