Cian Traynor
The hip-hop heroes fighting oppression in conflict areas
Stronger than a weapon — From political prisoners to former child soldiers, photographer Sascha Kraus has travelled the globe documenting outspoken figures doing what they do best: rapping for survival.
Written by: Cian Traynor
The psychedelic punk creating a safe-haven for artists
Acid Priest — When photographer Lee Kirby stumbled across a vagabond in designer clothes, he found himself opening a pandora’s box that would change his life. But for Lee Trosclair, renegade-turned-muse, the story is just beginning. In a world that undervalues art, he’s kickstarting a cultural revolution from an unlikely place.
Written by: Cian Traynor
Is Law Holt the upstart that pop music so badly needs?
Real talk from a true radical — After an unprovoked attack on public transport, singer Law Holt dug deep to get her career back on track. Now she's ready to kick some ass. 'Nu-glamour', 'apocalyptic R&B', 'the antidote to karaoke pop' - call her what you like, but this unconventional talent is here to cut through the music's industry bullshit.
Written by: Cian Traynor
The invincible mindset of Stephanie Gilmore
Heroes of Independence — To celebrate a decade of self-rule, we caught up with icons who personify the spirit of independence. In this instalment, surf icon Steph Gilmore talks about finding peace of mind in the simple things in life – with or without having to rely on others.
Written by: Cian Traynor
Dave Eggers’ advice for leading a life of creativity, on your own terms
Heroes of Independence — To celebrate a decade of self-rule, we caught up with icons who personify the spirit of independence. In this instalment, Dave Eggers shares his experience as a writer and publisher who knows how to get shit done – without having to make soul-destroying compromises.
Written by: Cian Traynor
How DJ Shadow went from brainiac misfit to champion of the underdog
A maverick in the margins — Since making a breakthrough as a beat-making pioneer, DJ Shadow has struggled to get his work heard. Now he's giving new artists a leg-up: shattering myths about label power and challenging ideas of success.
Written by: Cian Traynor
Cheryl Dunn on finding your voice in a world of noise
Heroes of Independence — To celebrate a decade of self-rule, we caught up with icons who personify the spirit of independence. In this instalment, photographer Cheryl Dunn guides us through the importance of creative resilience, craving knowledge and making sacrifices to do what you love.
Written by: Cian Traynor
Brawls, booze and spliffs: This is Sunday League Football
A visual ode to a beautiful game — In documenting the drama that spills across Hackney's football pitches every week, a former player-turned-photographer has uncovered a world of camaraderie and confrontation.
Written by: Cian Traynor
The story of Royal Trux: a cult band that re-shaped rock
Veterans of disorder — Royal Trux struck gold when a major label offered them a million dollars and full creative control. But as maverick outsiders, the band proved too eclectic for mainstream tastes. Now, 15 years after breaking up, they’re ready to admit that some journeys never end.
Written by: Cian Traynor
Ukraine in flux: A photographer digs beneath the surface
Capturing tides of change — As Ukraine marks 25 years of independence against a backdrop of unrest, photographer Adam Hinton reflects on a country still coming to terms with its identity.
Written by: Cian Traynor