23.12.09
Terry O'Neill
Terry O'Neill, well known for his images of Frank Sinatra, Brigitte Bardot and Audrey Hepburn, is one of Britain's most popular photographers, and has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world. Now, for the first time, the Chris Beetles Gallery in London will exhibit a collection of images that have never been seen before, catalogued during an extensive overhaul of his archive during the past year. In addition, the show will include several vintage prints that have never been offered before.
The exhibition will delight fans of celebrity portraiture, as the walls of the gallery will be covered with unseen images of some of the most collectable stars of the 20th Century. One of the most notable aspects in these new images is the extraordinary access that Terry O'Neill was granted. Whether it is Michael Caine posing with his 'Get Carter' shotgun, Muhammad Ali psyching himself up before a fight, or the Rolling Stones larking about in make-up, O'Neill had charmed his way into scenarios that today's celebrity photographers could only dream of. One particular shot is bound to provoke a good deal of interest - Audrey Hepburn frolicking by a pool with Albert Finney during the filming of 'Two For The Road', 1967. The two were said to have had an affair on set, and these photographs certainly do nothing to dispel this rumour.
Now 71 years old, O'Neill still mixes with many of the stars that he photographed in their prime. Perhaps this explains how he achieved such access - he was often as good a friend as he was a photographer.
The exhibition will confirm Terry O'Neill as one of the great recorders of 20th century celebrity, and give collectors the opportunity to buy previously unavailable prints by the UK's most sought after photographer.
Three completely unseen shots in particular are being made available to the press for publication:
Michael Caine on the set of 'Get Carter', 1970
O'Neill's great friend is shown in perhaps his most famous role, dressed to kill in a sharp three piece suit whilst brandishing a huge double-barrelled shotgun. This newly released photograph is a superb image of a national hero at the peak of his early fame.
Ursula Andress on the set of 'The 5th Musketeer', 1978
Perhaps the most famous bond-girl of all time is seen on set, performing a striptease, which was cut from the final version of this 1970s classic. Potential puns aside, this is a striking image of one of the 20th century's most beautiful women, showing us just why she found so many male admirers.
Mick Jagger in make up, early 1960s
The lead singer of the Rolling Stones is seen relaxing in his famous fur lined jacket, early on in the career of the world's biggest rock'n'roll band. This shot typifies O'Neill's early work, and success - the young, rising star of British photography working with the young, rising star of British pop music.
www.chrisbeetles.com
CHRIS BEETLES GALLERY,
8 & 10 Ryder Street,
London
SW1Y 6QB
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