Michael Ward’s
Britain
The show has been extended through March 15 2013
Shot Images is pleased to present a retrospective of work by acclaimed British photographer Michael Ward. Known for his prolific body of documentary photography work of musicians, actors, writers and other Pop icons of the 20th century, his subjects range widely from The Beatles to Margaret Thatcher, the Rolling Stones to Michael Caine, Queen Elizabeth to David Hockney.
Michael Ward worked for many prestigious British newspapers and magazines, including The Evening Standard and The Sunday Times, and frequently exhibited at notable galleries and museums, including the National Portrait Gallery and the Victoria and Albert museum. When working, he often shot areas of conflict abroad, focusing on the 1968 student riots in Paris, troubles in Northern Ireland, and the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. Yet many of his most moving images show the beauty and simplicity in everyday life in London. Within relaxed environments he brilliantly captured the creative energy of some of Britain’s most well respected artistic minds. His oeuvre presents a great multitude of sensual experiences, relationships, and perspectives on the intricacies of British culture through the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.
This exhibition will highlight works from 1963 through 1987. There are shots of life in the street in London, politicians under fire, irreverent self-portraits, as well as seldom viewed photographs of the Beatles, Rolling Stones and many leading social and theatrical figures of the day. His work subtly shines light on racial tensions, urban decay, and wealth inequalities in a time of great social upheaval in Europe. One of his favorite subjects was his wife Elizabeth Seal, an accomplished actor and dancer who won a Tony Award for her role as Irma, in" Irma la Douce" on Broadway in 1961. Elizabeth will be present for the opening.
