Behind the pomp

Ceremonial British events have been at the forefront of our minds in recent years, with major transitional moments in British history such as the Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, and the coronation of King Charles III in May 2023. London photographer Barney Curran, who attended the coronation and lead-up events, was interested in capturing the more personal and human qualities of the guards involved.

Curran recalls seeing a soldier reach for a pint after posing for a picture with his mum outside a pub. He says, ‘It was a lightbulb moment that highlighted the more personal side of the army. Behind the scenes, you realise it’s a very “human” event, with real people under the bearskins.’

He collaborated with designers StudioSmall (see ‘The book of the look’ in Pulp 20), to make the limited-edition photobook Changing of the Guard in 2024, featuring these unique images. Curran says, ‘It was incredible to witness the soldiers preparing for the parade. The level of detail in their presentation is extraordinary and there’s so much tradition and dedication in every gesture and uniform. My dad was in the army, so getting a glimpse into his world, especially being behind the scenes in the barracks, made photographing the Household Division especially meaningful.’

StudioSmall creative director Guy Marshall explains that design director Gabriella Voyias and designer Louis Kaile dedicated many hours to crafting a plan for the cover. Danny Kirk Prints, along with RS Bookbinders, devised a way to create 100 unique, hand-painted covers, all signed by Curran. Marshall explains, ‘One afternoon, armed with large brushes, the team transformed each cover into a one-of-a-kind piece.’ The cover paper selection of a vibrant Sirio Color Rough Cherry in contrast with painted black flexible matte ink brings in a carefully considered, ‘slightly patriotic palette’.

With a forward by Leanne Cloudsdale, founder of the non-profit organisation Concrete Communities, the book introduction investigates the symbolism and evolving significance of these traditions. Marshall states, ‘Her words perfectly frame the book’s intent to offer a “behind the edifice” perspective on this changing of the guard — a snapshot of history in transition.’