nick elliott rock art photographer officialQ & A PART 7…
Posted on April 2, 2021
1. What’s your perfect Sunday look like? (Amy D Lincoln UK)
1. Well Amy, that’s easy. My ideal Sunday is a full Monty breakfast cooked by my partner Benice. An afternoon black and white classic British film with a cheese roll and salad for tea. A lovely lazy day by a nice roaring fire, I’m easily pleased.
2. What would you like to be remembered for most? (L.Oliver. London uk)
2. It will always be my art, in all of its forms.
3. What is the most embarrassing thing that you have ever done? (Kevin Gibbs uk)
3. Getting totally wasted and climbing Peterborough town square Christmas tree. When I got down the police were waiting for me!
4. Do you have any other talents other than photography? (A Deane Hull UK)
4. I’m pretty good at sketching. I have won many awards for swimming and missed making the England Olympic swimming team by 3 seconds! I can also identify any music track from just the first 3 bars.
5. What has been your career highlight? (F.Corrigan. Belfast Ireland)
5. Working with some of my heroes that are the greatest musicians in the industry. Winning an award when I was independently commissioned to work with TBWA for the Liberal Democrat electoral campaign. I’m also proud of my Size Matters exhibition and being recognised as a renowned rock photographer via Wikipedia.
Thank you for all your questions. If you would like to ask Nick anything, please submit your questions to benicebond@icloud.com
Please note some questions have be condensed
BREAKFREE
Posted on April 2, 2021
The gentle easing of the COVID-19 restrictions is eagerly welcomed by Nick and the elliottstudios team.
However the far reaching consequences to the music industry and the creatives surrounding it, will take time to heal. The COVID-19 incision into the underbelly of the music industry may be so deep in some places that even the strongest surgical sutures cannot knit the wound together.
The faint sound of live music can still be heard in the distance and in time it will get louder. Nick has always remained staunchly hopeful that it will return stronger than ever. No one can live without live music in their lives. It is the food of love. It creates memories, feelings, emotions, it takes the heart and soul and allows them to soar, it can heal. Music transports us back to a moment in time. Music is all powerful.
The anticipated return of live music has sent audiences, promoters and musicians into a frenzy of organisation. Nick has been amazed at the resiliency of all creatives during the last year. The innovative ideas that have been borne from their tenacity to keep their art flowing to their audiences, has shown strength within the arts. Audiences have enjoyed virtual tours, online exhibits, podcasts, radio shows and live streaming which has kept them connected to an artistic life line.
Nick is looking forward to creatively stretching his wings again
“I can’t wait to get out there and get stuck into the Rockumentary projects again with The Dead Reynolds and Jon Peach. We are busy booking dates to continue ‘The Story So Far’ documentary and of course the filming for TV, ‘Two go mad in Norfolk’. It’s going to be a busy summer finalising arrangements for the UK to USA tour. There are also several commissioned projects and album artwork projects that need to be progressed. It’s going to be busy, I can’t wait” (Nick Elliott)
As lockdown is lifted let us take some time to fully appreciate the art industry and how much it enriches our lives, no matter what form it takes. Once we get back to riding down the highway (and going to a show), let’s tune in to BREAKFREE by Whitehorses, where JJ Newman blows us away with his lead vocals, and the track quintessentially epitomises what we have all been yearning to do for the last 13 months.
Rock Of Pages
Posted on April 2, 2021
In conjunction with Nick’s USA tour, exclusive tour merchandise is being prepared for shipment stateside.
Along with posters, bags, hats and T-shirts, Nick has finalised approximately 138 previously unseen fine art rock images for his new Rock Book. The rock publication has been weeks in the design and formatting process by the Elliott Studios team, and the first run of 250 will soon be underway. This exclusive American collection of rock images include Alice Cooper, Bon Jovi, Michael Schenker, and Iron Maiden to name a few.
The books introduction will be penned by our own Elliott Studios writer, and its forward will be a contribution from one of Nick’s acclaimed mysterious rockstar guests.
Each publication will be personally signed by Nick whilst on tour.
“It’s been a great opportunity to visit my rock archive. I’ve had a bit of an awakening and I don’t think I’m too bad at this gig!.“ (Nick Elliott)
A COLLECTION OF ROCK PHOTOGRAPHERS
Posted on April 2, 2021
Several months ago Nick was approached by David Trew, director of the reputable clothing company ‘Rock Photographers Collective’, to discuss an exciting new proposal. Now at post negotiation stage, elliottstudios are delighted to announce Nick’s new association with Rock Photographers Collective (RPC).
RPC, an established rock art clothing company, supplies quality hoodies, T- shirts, rock art merchandise, and fine art prints using images from a select illustrious group of rock photographers.
Nick has had the difficult task of selecting just 30 images from thousands of his archived, unseen rock images for the exclusive use of RPC on their extensive clothing and merchandise range.
Nick now joins an impressive and well recognised listing of photography peers, including rock photographers Andy Cotterill, Tony Mottram, and Angela Williams, who was Norman Parkinson’s assistant and her images of Paul Newman, Audrey Hepburn, and Barbara Streisand continue to captivate audiences.
RPC is also responsible for coordinating exhibitions, meet and greet, and Q & A sessions, which Nick is looking forward to participating in.
“I’m looking forward so much to joining this elite band of great photographic artists.” (Nick Elliott)
To see Nick’s work and the opportunity to bag yourself an exclusive unseen rock image, head over to Rockphotographerscollection.co.uk
Happy shopping everyone!
ONE SHEET, ONE MAN, ONE CAMERA, AND A ROLL FULL OF AMBITION
Posted on April 2, 2021
Nick’s ‘One Sheet’ for his upcoming USA Tour has been expertly designed by South Carolina design and network service industry, Waterscape Incorporated, of Murtle Beach, and elliottstudios could not be any more happier with the finished result.
The One Sheet is being distributed across several states in the USA, which is proving to generate even further interest and bookings for the USA Tour, under the robust management of Brenda Cline CEO of Workhorse 615.
Nick has already selected a compilation of his unique unseen images exclusively for his USA tour and its exhibitions. These remarkable images will be available to purchase as fine art prints and also be transferred onto tour merchandise.
A full list of dates and venues will be officially released by elliottstudios later this year.
If Nick’s UK fan base are feeling left out, there is no need to worry. Negotiations are already in progress for a UK and European tour.
“I’ve spent 10 years trying to crack the American market, since I first went there in 2010. I love the USA and the American people. I’m looking forward to taking Rock’ n’ Roll Nick Elliott style stateside. It’s going to be kicking!” (Nick Elliott)
Q & A. PART 5…
Posted on February 13, 2021
Q1. How often do you buy new clothes and is there anything that you wish would come back into fashion? ( A.Stephens Dorset UK)
A1. I buy new clothes regularly, I like to create my own fashion, but I would like to see proper heavy duty Levi denim make a come back.
Q2. Who was the worst and the best musician or band to work with? (Robin Callum Huntsville Alabama USA)
A2. Some of the best bands I have worked with were Status Quo, Metallica, Blockheads, Supertramp and ZZ Top. The most difficult musicians I’ve worked with would be Van Morrison, Michael Schenker, I found Art Garfunkel and Chuck Berry very challenging, and Gary Moore just plain ruined my evening!
Q3. Will your UK to USA tour come to UK venues? I really wanna see it. (Sam Neill UK)
A3. Hi Sam. We really hope to bring it back to England at some point in time.
Q4. Is there anything that you wouldn’t try or do again? (Belinda Howsley Oklahoma City USA)
A4. Marriage!
Q5. What bad habits have you got? (M Weisz New Mexico)
A5. Marriage!
Thank you for your questions Nick enjoys reading them and answering them all. If there’s anything that you would like to ask Nick please send your questions to Benicebond@iCloud.com
Q & A PART 4
Posted on February 13, 2021
Q1. How do you relax in your spare time? (KD Scotland)
A1. I listen to music, and watch classic British films and British comedies. I’m developing my cooking skills, and I love spending time with my partner and playing guitar.
Q2. What is your most favourite aspect of being a rock photographer? (E Shields Illinois USA)
A2. Photographing the people that are my heroes, who have made me who I am today, whose music has influence to my outlook on life, people and my creativity.
Q3. What is your greatest creative motivation? (J Ward UK)
A3. To leave a mark in photographic history, for people to recognise what I do. I want to my work to be viewed and questioned by the viewer I want them to explore their own emotions and try to understand the reactions and feelings that my images evoke.
Q4. Who would you want to be stranded with on a desert island and what three items would you take with you? (M Rogers Dunstable UK)
A4. My mum and I would take with me a camera, a guitar and a hairdryer!
Q5. What do you think about when photographing rock bands? (M Phillips Bideford UK)
A5. I think about the final images. I know when I’ve got the perfect shot and how it will look. The subject matter becomes irrelevant, and it’s always about the art
Q6. I think my boyfriend is going to ask me to marry him on Valentine’s Day, what should I say? (Kerry UK)
A6. Hi Kerry if you don’t get a better offer, then say yes!
Thank you for all your questions so far, if there is a particular question that you would like Nick to answer please send it to Benicebond@icloud.com
A DAY IN THE LIFE
Posted on February 12, 2021
A sneak peak into the day of our favourite Rock Art photographer Nick Elliott, can be very insightful to understand his work ethics, his passion for his art and his unrelenting drive to produce and push the boundaries of his creative mind.
Nick firmly believes that the early bird catches the worm, and rises each morning at 5:30. A time usually associated with shift workers, Nick finds this the best part of the day.
“The world is quiet. It hasn’t woken up yet. It’s a new day that I feel I’m the one of the first people to experience it “. (nick elliott)
Nick finds this time very productive,there is quiet and solitude to brainstorm ideas and formulate new projects.
“It’s my best thinking time, I’ve had some of my best ideas waiting for the world to wake up. I am often amazed at the beauty of a Norfolk sunrise from my kitchen window as I eat breakfast. It stirs my creativity “. (Nick Elliott)
Nick checks his diary, organises his work for the day, writes any outstanding emails and letters, tweaks contracts to go out and updates Elliott Studios social media and his personal accounts all before 7 am. After a brief respite work begins in earnest at 8:30 at Elliott studios. Recently Nick has been selecting images and finalising the design of several new books for publication, and post producing hundreds of unseen images in preparation for his upcoming tour and exhibitions. If not in the studio, Nick can be found on location either filming or completing commissioned work.
“I prefer my day to start off in a very structured way. This leaves my mind free to explore my creativity in the best way possible. My head can get really cluttered with ideas and new projects, I really have to work through all those concepts with mood boards to see the potential of it working. I have now realised that for a large part of my life I was creatively restrained in a relationship with an antagonist who was constantly imposing boundaries and restrictions which caused conflict. After a catalyst of events I now find myself free from that toxic relationship and I’m now able to grow creatively with freedom of expression. It’s had a huge positive impact on my life. My conceptual dark art projects portray that emotional journey to empowerment and allows me to push the boundaries of my art each day without fear of retribution or suppression. As a result of this life changing event, I have a renewed and deeper passion for creating art that has been allowed to be released and developed in the last couple of years. It’s liberating “. (Nick Elliott)
TOURING IT UP…UK TO USA STYLE
Posted on February 12, 2021
Nick and the Elliott Studio team are busy shaking their tailfeathers preparing for the forthcoming tour to the USA.
The tour management is being exclusively undertaken by Brenda Cline, CEO of the workhorse 165 entertainment group. The tour dates and venues are coming together and proving to raise much excitement amongst Nicks American audience. Starting in Oakland, the tour will consist of ticketed theatre shows across several states. ‘An audience with Nick Elliott’, will hear Nick reminiscing, and answering questions about his unique life as a renowned rock art photographer. A no holds barred recollection of his life back backstage, his childhood and a private life that has shaped him into the person that he is today. No subject will be off-limits!
During the tour Nick will be attending signings of his new book, intimate guest appearances, radio and TV interviews. A new range of Nick Elliott memorabilia and apparel, specifically designed for the tour will also be available to purchase.
“It’s an absolute pleasure to work with Brenda. I’m looking forward to getting back to the USA“ (Nick Elliott)
A WALK ON THE DARK SIDE, VIRTUAL TOUR
Posted on February 12, 2021
With the assistance of Aturn Film Productions, Nick is compiling his first ever virtual fine photographic exhibition.
The virtual exhibition will display a cacophony of Nicks fine art creations, spanning from unseen rock photography to some of his controversial, dark art conceptual images. Several select art galleries across the UK are ready to host its first showing before it’s released onto selective Internet platforms.
Collectors, new clients and Nicks loyal fan base will have the unique opportunity to experience the virtual exhibition to observe many previously unseen works of art displayed in the most daringly innovative way possible. Underlining the true Nick Elliott style.
“This is a great fun to do with my good friend Andy. We are continuing to find ways to bring the creative industry into peoples homes to keep it alive in such times. “ (Nick Elliott)
Part 2…Q&A with Nick
Posted on October 4, 2020
Q1. Is there any rockstar that you would want to photograph? (Marielle B. Uk)
A1. Well, that’s an easy one. Without a doubt it would be Rory Gallagher. The guy is a legend, and he is responsible with a few others for influencing my taste in music.
Q2. Cats or dogs? (Jules. S. London UK)
A2. I love all animals, but I’m going to have to go with dogs. My schnauzer friend Dudley is the best.
Q3. If you had a dinner party who would you invite, alive or dead and why. (Luisa. C. Bournemouth UK)
A3. My mum, just to see her and speak with her again. My dad for the same reasons and to ask him some questions that I never had the opportunity to before he died. Rory Gallagher, his music created a defining moment in my life, and David Bailey who I personally think changed the face of contemporary photography. And I would cook my rock ‘n’ roll chilli!
Q4. In your opinion what is the best camera that you have taken a picture with? (Jordan. Leeds UK)
A4. All cameras have different virtues. The The best camera I have ever used is a Canon. They are completely versatile, and whilst digital photography produces fantastic results, it shooting on a roll of film that separates the experts from the happy snappers. You can’t preview a shot, it’s totally reliant on light, exposure and an expert eye, when you use film. My Mamiya 67 is also a wonderful camera and a total pleasure to have in my hands.
Q5. Your house is burning down and you can only save two items what do you save.? (Lucas Leicester UK)
A5. Hi this is difficult because there are lots of things I would save, but it would have to be my memorabilia box. It contains many priceless things my mum and dad brought me when I was growing up. The second item would either be my partner Benice, or my Rolleiflex camera……I guess it’s going to have to be my Rolleiflex! She’s going to kill me when she reads this!
Q6. What is it like working with Robert Plant? Who have been the best rock band that you have worked with? (Janice S Bedford UK)
A6. Hi Jan, Robert Plant is one of my true heroes. He is a truly captivating bloke to talk to, extremely polite and down-to-earth. When I walked past him for the first time backstage, I actually shook with excitement, he’s been a massive part of my life musically. Led Zeppelin were my introduction to rock music and has remained at the core even to this day. There have been many bands that have been wonderful to work with, Rival sons, The Blockheads, Alice Cooper and Wilco Johnson to name just a few.
Q7. What influences your unique style of photography and how have you developed this? (Chris J Devon UK)
A7. The biggest influences on my style of photography where my dad at an early age, Terence Donovan, Patrick Litchfield and David Bailey who was my biggest inspiration. I also found inspiration in classic British black-and-white films and film Noir. They have so much atmosphere. My style developed with these influences that allowed me the freedom to express myself in my art and dare to push the boundaries of photography. Music also played a part in developing my inner awareness. Dark Side Of The Moon by Pink Floyd was the LSD of the music world.
Q8. Who are the best bands that you have seen live? (Paul T Newport UK)
A8. Hi Paul. I’ve seen many bands ,and artists that have had an immense impact on me as a creative and personally. The most prolific band that comes to mind is AC/DC, that gig changed my life to the core. Although I never shot him, Rory Gallagher was incredible, I saw him play three times. Others that were so wonderful to witness and be part of a musical union were Joanne Shaw Taylor, status quo, the darkness, ZZ Top, Metallica, levellers, and Ozzy.
Q9. Do you wear some pretty cool clothes. Do you always dress like this? I am taking a fashion degree at Leeds University and your dress sense inspires me. (Sam O Leeds UK)
A9. The contents of my wardrobe are a total expression of myself. Over the last few years I have become more experimental with my look, and it’s really liberating. It’s given me extra confidence and keeps me in touch with my inner self. I believe that what you wear represents your personality and identifies us as a person. Nothing should be off-limits. I feel people who judge others fashion sense are trapped in a mediocre, expressionless existence and can’t identify with themselves. So mix the colours up, wear spots and stripes and do what you Gotta do. Good luck with the studies Sam.
Q10. Are you a tit or a bum man? (Mark W Oxford UK)
A10. Tits every time!
If you have a question for Nick please send it to Benicebond@icloud.com and we will include them in the next Q&A session. please note some questions have been shortened.
I’ve got 99 problems but The Peach ain’t one.
Posted on September 7, 2020
Our very own Nick Elliott was in attendance, bringing his unmistakable style and Va va voom to the rock photography world. Nick continues his Rockumentary project with Jon and whilst he made magic on stage, Nick captured the magical heart and soul of this seasoned performer.
Jon revitalised the audience with a selection of tracks from his band ‘Pray for the Buffalo’ and his newly released solo tracks from ‘Love Songs For Losers…‘
“I continue to repeat bad relationship choices because that’s the only way I can write such good Love Songs For Losers…!” (Jon Peach)
Nicks rockumentary series continues over the next 12 months with Jon, and has expanded to involve other mainstream bands and artists which will be announced after finalising negotiations.
In the meantime don’t forget to visit the nick elliott shop and peruse hundreds of new images of all your favourite rock bands.
“This was a great start to what I’m sure will turn out to be a wonderful body of work and a fantastic project to work on. I’m looking forward very much to producing these images and spending time with Jon. He’s a dear friend, I’m sure we’re gonna have a lot of giggles, and a lot of fun along the way. Should be a fucking blast”. (Nick Elliott. Rock art photographer)