Amsterdam
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Uncovering the Musical Influence of Cannabis: The Pope Smokes Dope Exhibition

Delve into the intertwined history of marijuana and modern music genres, from jazz to hip hop.

The temporary exhibition 'The Pope Smokes Dope' explores the profound connection between cannabis and contemporary music. Drawing its name from a 1972 album, it showcases marijuana's role as both inspiration and recreation for musicians. Visitors can explore its impact across jazz, reggae, rock, and hip hop, examining various artists and album art that highlight this cultural feedback loop.

About The Pope Smokes Dope at Hash Marihuana Hemp Museum in Amsterdam

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for The Pope Smokes Dope at Hash Marihuana Hemp Museum in Amsterdam

Exhibition summary

This temporary exhibition explores the deep connection between modern music genres and the use of marijuana, drawing its title from David Peel's 1972 album. It showcases how the cannabis plant has served as a significant source of inspiration and recreation for musicians across jazz, reggae, rock, hip hop, and dance music.

Curatorial context

The temporary exhibition 'The Pope Smokes Dope' delves into the intertwined history of modern music and marijuana. Taking its name from David Peel's 1972 album, produced by John Lennon and Yoko Ono, the exhibition highlights the cannabis plant's role as a fundamental element and source of inspiration for entire genres of music. It illustrates this connection through examples such as Jefferson Airplane's 'Long Silver John' (1972), Peter Tosh's political statement 'Legalize It' (1975), and Groove Armada's 'Purple Haze' (2002), which references Jimi Hendrix's song and a cannabis strain. The exhibition demonstrates that marijuana's influence extends beyond jazz and reggae to rock, hip hop, and alternative dance artists, showcasing controversial album covers and the cultural feedback loop between music and cannabis.

Admission and ticket notes

The exhibition is located on the museum's ground floor and offers free entry. Further information can be found via the provided Facebook event link.

The Pope Smokes Dope key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for The Pope Smokes Dope at Hash Marihuana Hemp Museum in Amsterdam

Venue
Hash Marihuana Hemp Museum
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
Jun 1, 2016 – Aug 28, 2016
Artist line / attribution
The exhibition features references to musicians and albums such as David Peel, John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Jefferson Airplane, Peter Tosh, and Groove Armada, illustrating the connection between cannabis and music.
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