Throbbing Gristle – Cosey Fanni Tutti, Chris Carter, Genesis Breyer P-Orridge (1950–2020) and Peter ‘Sleazy’ Christopherson (1955–2010) – activated exactly 50 years ago, on 3 September 1976. To mark the anniversary, TG50 comes to the ICA on 18 October 2026 – 50 years to the day since the band’s incendiary live performance at the gallery, staged as part of their notorious Prostitution exhibition.
The Prostitution exhibition and performance triggered a tabloid furore. The Daily Mirror declared “MP’s fury at porn palace”, while the Daily Express ran with “Bust-up at Gallery of Porn”. In Parliament, Conservative MP Nicholas Fairbairn famously denounced Throbbing Gristle as “wreckers of civilisation”.
On 18 October 2026, the ICA will mark this moment with a day of films, talks and music, bringing Throbbing Gristle fans together to share memories, stories and reflections on the band and what their work has meant to them. The day will also see the launch of a new range of TG merchandise, including items available exclusively at the event.
The event is free to attend and drop in throughout the day, with separate paid tickets for limited-capacity cinema screenings and talks. Further details, including the screening programme, will be announced soon.
Chris Carter and Cosey Fanni Tutti of Throbbing Gristle
in conversation with Luke Turner
Sun 18 Oct, 6pm
Chris Carter and Cosey Fanni Tutti reflect on the early days of Throbbing Gristle, their experience of London at the time, and the ways in which they forged new forms of music and art amid the city’s cultural underground.
More to be announced.
