EXHIBITION | Madonna: The Rise of the Material Girl (1980-1985)
About this Event
See early photographs from the years before she became an icon. Madonna: The Rise of the Material Girl (1980–1985) brings together images from seven acclaimed photographers, documenting the making of the best-selling female artist of all time, from her earliest years on the New York club scene through the Like a Virgin tour in 1985.
Madonna Louise Ciccone arrived in New York from Ann Arbor, Michigan, in 1978 to pursue dance before turning to music. Soon after, she was offered a ready-made pop career in Paris, but rejected the opportunity in favor of creative control and returned to New York. She walked away from a band that wouldn't make her the lead singer. She co-wrote her own songs instead of waiting for someone else to write hits for her. She brought demos straight to New York's club DJs to build an audience before the labels came calling. Every choice, made on her own terms, a creative philosophy that still defines her more than four decades later. With Madonna now releasing Confessions II, there's no better time to revisit where it all began.
Your ticket includes:
- View the exhibition
- Limited-edition prints available for purchase
- Tour the gallery, view iconic musicians from jazz to grunge
Admission:
Only on view for eight weeks. Timed entry: select your preferred date and time at checkout. Running a little late? No problem, you're still welcome in if you miss your slot.
Want to be first to experience the exhibition? Join us for opening night, Saturday, August 1, 2026.
RSVP .
About Musichead Gallery
Founded in 1998 by Sam Milgrom, Musichead Gallery is a destination for collectible music photography on Sunset Boulevard, representing over 80 world-renowned photographers whose archives capture the greatest moments in music history. The gallery is a space for museum-quality photography exhibitions, book signings, and live music, bringing together the timeless power of music and art to inspire and connect people across generations.
Visit musichead.com to learn more
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
