01/11/2025
In 1969, Syd Barrett, the iconic founder of Pink Floyd, was living a somewhat surreal existence. Having already begun to detach himself from the group and from mainstream society, his journey into isolation was being documented by legendary photographer Mick Rock. During a photo shoot at Earl's Court, Barrett's ethereal, almost otherworldly presence was captured alongside Igy the Eskimo, born Evelyn Rose. The pair’s strange and captivating image encapsulated the era's psychedelic mood, with Barrett's disheveled appearance and the unusual, almost mythical figure of Igy standing out against the backdrop of London in the 1960s.
The late 1960s were a time of cultural transformation, as London became a hub of counterculture movements. Syd Barrett, known for his creativity and groundbreaking contributions to Pink Floyd, had a unique, haunting charm that resonated with the avant-garde scenes of the time. Barrett’s connection to psychedelic rock, particularly with Pink Floyd's tracks like "Interstellar Overdrive" and "Astronomy Domine," placed him at the heart of a musical revolution. But by the time the photograph was taken, Barrett's mental health had begun to deteriorate, leading to his eventual departure from the band in 1968. His lifestyle, which was a blend of musical genius and erratic behavior, was often a topic of fascination for fans and observers alike.
The photo shoot at Earl's Court, a renowned venue in London, took place at a time when Barrett's status as a cultural icon was in full bloom. Mick Rock, whose work would later define much of the glam rock era, had begun to capture the vivid essence of rock stars in their rawest form. This image of Barrett with Igy the Eskimo served as a reflection of the psychedelic burnout that characterized the lives of many musicians during that time. The juxtaposition of Barrett’s eccentric personality and the alternative presence of Igy showcased the whimsical, yet troubled nature of the 1960s music scene.
It was a period of both artistic brilliance and personal crisis for Barrett, whose contributions to music would continue to influence generations, even as his personal life became increasingly withdrawn. Mick Rock’s iconic photograph remains a poignant visual reminder of the fleeting, magical period in London’s history when rock and roll, art, and rebellion collided.