nick elliott rock art photographer official2 ON THE RADIO
Posted on April 4, 2021
Andy Blithe and Nick will be special guests on BBC Radio Norfolk next week, discussing their new TV series ‘2 Go Mad In Norfolk’, with Kirstene Thorne at 08:20 on 10/04/2021
The delightful duo will be talking about the exclusive concept of ‘2 Go Mad’ and how it has evolved into it’s mischievously entertaining design. Andy and Nick will give a sneak preview into the shows content, and how their 10 year friendship has been a stable foundation to the dynamics of the show. The BBC TV have also shown an interest in broadcasting a feature with the couple.
Meanwhile filming for ‘2 Go Mad’ restarts this month in various locations around Norfolk. The boys will be travelling around the county sampling local tourist attractions and Norfolk novelties , with their impish shenanigans adding hilarity to the events. Keep a look out for Penthouse 1 and the boys on their travels.
“Little bit of a diversion for me this project, being one that’s going to be a regularly broadcasted show. Very much looking forward to it and to having a lot of laughs and a lot of giggles, can’t wait. Andy and I have been close friends for the past 10 years, and to do a project like this, I think, the only way that it can really work is if we have a real serious bond between ourselves, and a really good vibe. I love Andy, he’s a top man and I think this is going to be something really exciting”. (Nick Elliott)
COMING TO AMERICA
Posted on April 3, 2021
Nick’s UK to USA tour is gathering momentum as more tour dates, venues and public appearances are added to this much anticipated event.
elliottstudios continue to be busy preparing the tour merchandise and working closely with Brenda Cline, Nick’s USA management, in securing promotional dates across several US states.
The UK to USA Tour will be kicking off in October 2021, dates and venues have already been provisionally booked in Texas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Nick will be promoting the event via TV, radio, print, and interviews all taking place stateside prior to the tour commencing.
Negotiations are still in progress for appearances at The Leon Russell Studio in Tulsa, The Woody Guthrie Centre (in conjunction with a Nick Elliott exhibition at this illustrious rock photographers Museum), and several casinos would like to add Nick to their after dinner shows.
Andy Blithe will accompany Nick to continue ‘The Story So Far’ documentary, charting Nick’s unique career and enviable talent behind the lens.
Further information and all tour dates will be confirmed by elliottstudios soon.
Q & A. PART 8
Posted on April 2, 2021
1. What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self? (Matt Landes UK)
1. Hi Matt it would always be to follow your instincts, to be yourself and never change your focus and also never forget where your roots are.
2. What’s the best event you have ever been to? (Chris Staton UK)
2. Hi Chris that would be the classic rock awards in 2015. It was a great night, in the presence of music legends. I remember I got mobbed going in for my autograph.
3. What has been the most memorable thing you have seen in the rock business? (M Paige. S Carolina USA)
3. Jack Bruce, the bass player for Cream, sitting all alone in the middle of a field at a Van Morrison show. A second close was having a cup of tea with Robert Plant.
4. In your opinion what is the best photo that’s ever been taken? (Jesse G Tulsa USA)
4. I couldn’t possibly answer that Jesse. There have been some fantastic shots in history. But any image that evokes a profound reaction from its audience becomes memorable to each individual.
5. I am 17 years old and enjoy photography as a hobby. I really like your photos and you have inspired me to try live performance photography. How do you feel when people say that you have inspired them? (Lily Gordon Oxford UK)
5. It’s wonderful. A fantastic feeling to know my art is ultimately appreciated. We are all inspired by people we admire. It’s totally wonderful to know that your work has inspired somebody else’s career and their art, just as my peers inspired me, it’s fabulous to know that I’ve made a mark.
Thank you for all your questions. If you have anything that you would like to ask Nick please send it to Benice Bond@icloud.com
Please note that some questions have been shortened.
Q & 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
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 6
Posted on February 13, 2021
Q1. What’s your favourite meal? (JB Coventry UK)
A1. Chips and egg with bread and butter. A close second would be a full Monty. Benice is a brilliant cook and she has taught me a few of her tricks. You could eat in Monaco and it would be as good as her home-made chips and egg.
Q2. What’s the last book you read? (A regalia UK)
A2. I was fortunate enough to receive David Bailey‘s new book ‘Look’ for Christmas and it’s absolutely enthralling . I’ve also just read ‘The boy, the mole, the Fox and the horse’ by Charlie Mackey. It’s fantastic, I recommend it to everyone, and it’s reassuring in these times. The artwork and the text are just spot-on.
Q3. What do you prefer to drink? (B Carter UK)
A3. I love a pint of ice cold milk, but that’s closely followed by JB and Pepsi on ice. I met Agostini in the clubhouse at Silverstone in 1974 during the British motorcycle Grand Prix. During our chat he ordered us both a whiskey and Coke, in a tall glass over ice. It was the best drink ever. Afterwards I thought that if it’s good enough for Agostini it’s good enough for me and I have drunk my JB like that ever since.
Q4. What tips can you give an aspiring music photographer? (Remedios P. Greece)
A4. I don’t normally give tips on photography. I’m a firm believer that you should find your own style and develop your craft to make it individual. Individualism is the way to make your art stand out from the rest. It blazes a unique trail that others try to emulate, but as you develop and become more creative those twats that copy, find it hard to keep up. Always keep pushing your creative boundaries and be daring.
Q5. Truth or dare? (D Clark Bodmin UK)
A5. Truth
Q6. Have you ever been arrested? (Joyce Gwyn South Wales UK)
A6. Well no, but I nearly was. My friend and I climbed the Christmas tree in the middle of Peterborough town Square in 1973. When we got down, the dibbles were waiting for us. It took a bit of sweet talking for them to let us off with a warning. I was totally ragged that night. Happy days!
Thank you for all your questions. If you have a burning question for Nick, whatever the topic, please send it to benicebond@icloud.com.
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)
LIGHTS ,CAMERA, ACTION
Posted on February 12, 2021
‘The Story So Far’, a documentary produced and directed by the talented filmmaker Andy Blithe of Aturn Films, continues its filming across Norfolk, charting the unique and enviable life of world renowned rock art photographer Nick Elliott.
Filming has proven to be quite challenging at times due to the current lockdown, but where there’s a will, there’s a way and shooting has taken place at Elliott Studios documenting Nick post producing and preparing his fine art images for his upcoming exhibition and sales.
It is hopeful that Andy will be shadowing Nick on his UK to USA tour to record stateside the events of this much anticipated event.
Nick and Andy are making headway with the filming of ‘2 go mad in Norfolk’ at various locations around Norfolk. Penthouse I has been refurbished to make it the most desirable motorhome on the road. Not limiting themselves to the road, the boys will also be kings of the waterways as penthouse II has finally dipped her bottom into the water and is ready to christen the waters of Norfolk with Captain Blithe at the helm and Mr Elliott no doubt planning a mutiny.
Look out for the lads in the county on all the different modes of transport, bringing laughter and mayhem to the locals of Norfolk as they rediscover the hidden delights of the county in their naughty, exclusive style.
“I’m so enjoying this partnership with Andy. We are the Morecambe and Wise of Norfolk. We have a lot of laughs but we take all the projects very seriously. It’s a pleasure to work with him, plus he’s taller than Ernie “. (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.
The Story So Far…
Posted on August 12, 2020
Aturn films, owned by Andy Turner approached Nick some time ago with a proposal that was just too good to pass up. Filming has now commenced on a no holds barred documentary about Nick‘s life, his grass root beginnings and his rise to renowned rock art photographer, taking his place amongst some of the most revered photographers the world has to offer.
“I met Nick some 10 years ago through printed media, we have stayed in touch on and off since then.”
Andy Turner (Aturn Films)
The candid documentary delves within the layers of Nick’s personality and allows viewers a sincere insight into what makes this artistic,tick both behind and in front of the lens.
“Knowing how passionate Nick was about his work I knew I needed to document his life to where he is now, warts and all, and show people how life within the art world is full of peaks and troughs”
Andy Turner (Aturn Films)
Nick talks openly about his career as a newspaper photographer, his first studio, how he took the advertising industry by storm, working within the rock art industry, his totally unique and captivating images depicting his beloved Norfolk and his slow descent into a hideously despondent private world, following several personal tragedies that have shaped his future art for good.
“ Nick made me aware of some new exciting projects he was working on that was somewhat different compare to his usual fine art rock photography“
Andy Turner (Aturn Films)
Nick chats transparently to Aturn Films and discusses life events that have brought him here today, events which have impacted on his perception of art, and his relentless passion to make a difference within the creative industry. He discusses his family, his colourful childhood tinted by his Eastend roots, his emotional frustrations within a failed marriage, and his desire to be secluded from the idiosyncrasies of modern day society.
“Nick is one of the coolest and nicest people I know, and following his story over the coming months will bring a rare insight into the mind of a creative at their best”
Andy Turner (Aturn Films)
Filming takes place over the next few months on locations throughout the UK. Once completed, audiences will be able to immerse themselves in this enthralling documentary via Netflix, Amazon prime, and terrestrial TV.
“I feel so pleased and excited about this Aturn film documentary. It’s straight out of the desk and totally unedited. I would very much like to thank Andy for the opportunity to tell my story and look forward to creating something fantastic during our joint collaboration as it progresses”
It’s Rock n’ Roll!
Nick Elliott Rock Art Photographer…