Squaring the Circle (The Story of Hipgnosis)

In “Squaring the Circle (The Story of Hipgnosis),” audiences are taken on a vibrant journey into the heart of the music industry during the 1960s and 70s, exploring the groundbreaking creative partnership of Storm Thorgerson and Aubrey Powell. Set against the backdrop of a transformative era in popular music, this visually stunning series delves into the iconic art collective that created some of the most memorable album covers in history, shaping not only the aesthetic of rock and roll but also the identities of the artists they worked with.

The narrative is anchored in the complex relationship between Storm and Aubrey, both visionary artists with a shared passion for pushing artistic boundaries. As they navigate the pressures of a booming music scene, their ambitious collaborations with renowned bands like Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and T. Rex lead to legendary visual masterpieces, from the mind-bending imagery of “The Dark Side of the Moon” to the provocative designs of “Houses of the Holy.” Despite their professional success, the duo faces personal and creative dilemmas, as fame and artistic integrity often clash with commercial expectations.

Through a rich tapestry of interviews, dramatizations, and archival footage, viewers witness the duo’s rise in an industry ripe with eccentric personalities and artistic rivalries. Supporting characters include enigmatic rock stars navigating their own tumultuous journeys, frustrated label executives grappling with the volatility of the music business, and budding artists inspired by Storm and Aubrey’s revolutionary approaches to visual storytelling.

As the series unfolds, it thoughtfully examines themes of artistic expression, friendship, and the often-destructive quest for perfection. Torn between the demands of their growing fame and their desire to create art that resonates on a deeper level, Storm and Aubrey confront the reality of their choices, leading to moments of both triumph and heartbreak.

“Squaring the Circle” invites viewers not just to celebrate the nostalgic iconography of vinyl records, but to engage with the deeper questions of what it means to “square the circle” in one’s creative journey, capturing the essence of an era that continues to influence artists today. It’s an enthralling exploration of vision, collaboration, and the sometimes tumultuous path to artistic legacy.