On The Periphery Exhibition and Book Launch Duncan James

On The Periphery began in 2015 when Art Director Duncan James noticed a group of Mods gathered outside a North London café on Remembrance Sunday. Intrigued, he returned with his camera and was met with a warm reception that led him to discover a thriving contemporary Mod scene. What started as a chance encounter became a decade-long documentary project.

Duncan’s photographic practice is rooted in building genuine connections with the people he photographs. Influenced by Alfred Eisenstaedt’s belief that “it’s more important to click with people than to click the shutter,” he prioritises trust, friendship, and mutual respect. This approach has enabled him to create candid, unintrusive images that authentically reflect the lives and experiences of his subjects.

Despite being welcomed into the community, Duncan maintains the position of an observer rather than a participant. The title On The Periphery reflects this perspective—documenting from the edges while remaining closely connected to the people and culture at its heart.

The exhibition and accompanying book celebrate ten years of photographing contemporary Mod culture across the UK. Through honest and carefully observed imagery, the project captures the enduring appeal, individuality, and sense of belonging that continue to define this vibrant subculture.