A new exhibition is exploring youth, live music and collectivism in the region during the 1980s.

In the early 80s, DIY music collectives in the north-east included the Sunderland Musicians Collective and the Gateshead Music Collective. They utilised spaces, at The Bunker and The Station respectively, and were heavily indebted to the DIY aesthetic, with an emphasis on active participation and breaking down divisions between performer and spectator. Having a space to practice and play gigs gave many young people respite from the unrelenting socio-economic conditions of the time. It also opened participants up to collective structures. The aim of this exhibition and associated events is to explore that 1980s legacy and the impact it had on people’s lives as part of our living cultural history. (Note: there’s a speaker/discussion event on Saturday 25 November, 12-5pm.)

NE Music, Youth & Collectivism in the 80s, 18 November-16 December, Newcastle Contemporary Art (open Thurs-Saturdays, noon-5pm), High Bridge, Newcastle, visitnca.com