This October/November, Nick Elliott brings his work home for a one-night-only special live event in Peterborough. 50 Years Behind the Lens: A Night In With Nick Elliott & David Lowndes is a one-off celebration of photography, music, and storytelling, marking five decades spent behind the camera. Joined by respected press photographer David Lowndes, Nick will share iconic rock images alongside personal stories from a lifetime photographing legendary artists, stages, and moments that shaped his career. The evening offers an intimate, in-person experience of conversation, projected images, and reflection — a unique event that will happen once, and only once.
Some of the collection that could be on show.
50 Years Behind the Lens: A Night In With Nick Elliott & David Lowndes A one-night celebration of photography, music, and storytelling in Peterborough
A Night In With Nick Elliott is a special live event celebrating the careers of two remarkable photographers whose work spans five decades.
World-renowned rock art photographer Nick Elliott and respected press photographer David Lowndes will come together for an intimate evening of storytelling, conversation, Q&A, and projected images, sharing personal experiences from lives spent behind the camera.
What is the event?
This is a live, in-person storytelling and photography evening, where Nick and David will guide audiences through some of their most powerful images and the stories behind them — from world-famous rock stages to everyday life in Peterborough.
The evening will conclude with an exhibition of Nick Elliott’s iconic rock photography, with selected works also available through his published books. The exhibition will include images from his UK tour collection, alongside a dozen photographs from Nick Elliott’s rockumentary of David’s final year — his fiftieth year — as a press photographer at the Peterborough Telegraph, revealing a deeply personal portrait of the man behind the lens.
Where and when will it be held?
The event will take place at the Peterborough Conservative Club in October/November 2026 (final date to be confirmed).
Why is Nick doing this?
After more than 30 years photographing over 300 legendary artists, Nick wants to bring his work home, celebrate a lifetime in photography, and share these stories directly with the local community.
This event is about celebrating photography as storytelling, honouring two very different but equally important photographic careers, and creating a memorable cultural evening for Peterborough — while also celebrating David’s final year as a press photographer at the Telegraph.
Your support helps cover venue costs, exhibition production, and event materials, ensuring the evening can be properly presented and accessible to all.
About Nick Elliott
Nick Elliott is internationally recognised as one of the world’s leading rock art photographers. Over more than three decades, he has photographed over 300 iconic artists, including Motörhead, Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne, The Rolling Stones, Iron Maiden, Debbie Harry, Robert Plant, and The Who.
His work has appeared on album covers and in publications such as Classic Rock, Kerrang!, and Sound. He was appointed official rock photographer for Planet Rock Radio and London’s O2 Arena for over eleven years, and his photography has featured in major books and exhibitions, including the acclaimed Size Matters exhibition at Cholmondeley Castle.
About David Lowndes
David Lowndes enjoyed a distinguished career as a press photographer at the Peterborough Telegraph, where he documented decades of life in the city. From breaking news to intimate portraits, his photography captured the people, places, and stories that shaped the local community.
What supporters will receive
Anyone who contributes to this GoFundMe campaign will receive: • Free entry to the event • A complimentary printed programme • Their name featured on all event publicity and acknowledgements
Why your support matters
This is a rare opportunity to experience and celebrate two extraordinary photographic legacies — one capturing the raw energy of global rock music, the other preserving the everyday stories of Peterborough.
By supporting this event, you are helping to create a unique cultural night that honours photography, music, journalism, and community.
Some of the collection from the fine art book with Dave Lowndes “50 Years On the Job”
Over Christmas, Nick Elliott was staying at Orton Hall Hotel in Peterborough, expecting a quiet festive break. Instead, he received a gift that would stay with him long after the season ended: a lifelike oil portrait by artist Cilla Marseglia, so striking in its realism and depth that it brought him to tears. For Nick, it was one of the most memorable Christmas presents he has ever received.
The portrait’s origins go back several years, when Nick reconnected with Cilla and her husband, Cenz, during the filming of his documentary The Story So Far. Returning to the place where he grew up after more than 30 years, he was reunited with his former neighbours. Both feature in the documentary, marking a reunion steeped in memory and shared history — a reunion that became the foundation for the portrait.
Nick Pictured with the Artist Cilla Marseglia at Orion Hall Peterborough.
Nick had no idea that artist Cilla Marseglia was a portraitist of such skill. Using a photograph of Nick taken by Cenz, she began work on the painting with patience and care, capturing not only his likeness but the subtle truths of his character. The finished work reflects the quiet intensity of a life spent observing the world, the depth of experience, and the essence of the man behind the camera.
When Nick finally saw the portrait, he was overwhelmed. As Shakespeare wrote in Twelfth Night:
“I can no other answer make but thanks, / And thanks, and ever thanks.”
The painting is not merely a depiction; it is a meditation on presence, memory, and time. Each brushstroke conveys detail and nuance that photographs alone cannot capture. It is a gift that asks nothing but offers everything: a reminder of how art can illuminate the familiar in new ways, revealing the life lived within a face and the stories it carries.
In giving this portrait, artist Cilla Marseglia offered more than a painting — she offered a moment of reflection, a reunion made tangible, and a work that lingers, quietly insistently, in both memory and imagination. For Nick, it is a gift to treasure forever, a testament to the power of art to move, to reveal, and to endure.
I think it’s one of the most emotional and meaningful presence I’ve ever received in my entire life. The worker has gone into it and the scale of Cilla is just totally showstopping.
Nick pictured outside the Honk Kong Museum of Art.
Nick Elliott’s recent visit to Hong Kong saw him exploring galleries and meeting with curators to discuss bringing his Dark Art collection to the city. Invited to speak about his work, Nick also took part in several arts programmes, connecting with local artists and exchanging ideas. There was a real interest in his work, and a fascination around the Dark Art collection in particular—with many commenting that it was something unique and a strong fit for the market in Hong Kong. The conversations with curators were productive, and there was a dynamic energy around his work—marking a strong first step toward introducing his art to the Far East.
He found Hong Kong to be welcoming and creatively open, and he came away with a clear sense of how his work could fit into the local scene. It was a productive week for Nick and his PR team, full of insight, connection, and momentum. He’s now looking forward to bringing his collection to Hong Kong in the near future, with this visit acting as a key stepping stone into the wider Far East market.
Hong Kong.Hong Kong Island.
I’ve been considering for sometime the possibility of taking my art to the far East. It did illuminate the logistical problems that I might face with it being so far away.
Rome, Italy – Nick Elliott recently concluded his extraordinary exhibition, The Italian Job, at the Medina Art Gallery in Rome, which ran from March 28th to April 3rd, 2025. The opening night attracted an enthusiastic crowd of 130 industry professionals, marking a significant milestone in Nick’s illustrious career.
Exhibition Highlights
The exhibition showcased 18 previously unseen original images from his acclaimed Dark Art collection, alongside 13 iconic photographs from his rock art days. These striking images capture legendary musicians, including Blondie, ZZ Top, Ozzy Osbourne, Lemmy from Motorhead, Roger Daltrey from The Who, and Glen Matlock. Nick’s work evokes powerful emotions through vivid imagery, exploring profound themes of human experience, the natural world, and the intricacies of the human psyche.
Successful Reception
The exhibition resonated deeply with the Italian audience, who connected with the narratives woven into each piece. Many remarked they had never encountered such originality before, generating considerable excitement on opening night. The warmth and enthusiasm of the audience reflected their admiration for Nick; some were so moved that they shed tears in the streets upon realising he had brought his art to Italy. This monumental event was five years in the making, thanks to the tireless efforts of his dedicated PA, Raffi.
Future Endeavours
Nick is thrilled to announce that he has secured a prestigious residency at the Medina Art Gallery, set to begin this summer (2025). This accolade fulfills a lifelong dream for him, and he is immensely grateful to Palma Costabile, the gallery’s director, for her unwavering belief in his vision and her support of his work. Following the success of his exhibition in Rome, Nick has also been offered another exhibition in Milan. Looking ahead, he envisions an exciting European tour and is currently in discussions with galleries in Hong Kong.
Media Highlights
The exhibition’s success led to a high-profile interview with Rock Nation music magazine in Rome, where Nick was interviewed by editor and photographer Daniel Bianchini. Now available online and highlights Nick’s remarkable 50-year career as a rock photographer, his notable collaborations, and his transition into dark conceptual art.
Acknowledgements
Nick extends his heartfelt gratitude to Palma Costabile, the director of the Medina Art Gallery, for her incredible support throughout this journey. He also expresses deep appreciation for Raffi Clementi, his dedicated PA, whose relentless efforts over the past decade helped realise this vision. Special thanks go to Daniel Bianchini for featuring Nick in a high-profile interview in Rock Nation Magazine Nick is also thankful to Alexandro, Rafi’s close friend and business partner, who provided daily cakes, transportation, and invaluable translation services during their time in Italy.
Additionally, Nick expresses his gratitude to Andy Blythe, an award-winning filmmaker from Aturn Films, who brought a small crew to document the entire two-and-a-half weeks spent in Rome for the exhibition. Nick even recorded a podcast with Andy, reflecting on their memorable experiences in Rome.
For a glimpse into Nick’s diverse portfolio, visit his website at [www.nickelliott.photography], showcasing collections of his conceptual dark art and rock photography.
Nick pictured with Palma Costabile Gallery Director, and is very trusted Italian PA Raffaella Clementi  who made the whole thing happen.A few shots from the private viewing evening.
Man! What a fantastic night.
I would just like to give a very personal thank you to my trusted and extremely professional Italian PA Raffaella Clementi. Who who made this whole Italian project become a reality. And the small TV crew of Andy Blythe and Steve Knight who managed to document the whole event.
Rome, Italy – Following the resounding success of his recent exhibition The Italian Job at the Medina Art Gallery, Nick has been approached for an exciting new opportunity. Palma Costabile, the gallery’s director, extended an invitation for Nick to take on a residency at the Medina Art Gallery, starting in the summer of 2025 and lasting for a year.
Nick did not hesitate to accept this incredible offer. He is delighted to announce his upcoming residency, which he views as a significant milestone in his artistic journey. “I am incredibly excited about this opportunity,” Nick shared. “The chance to immerse myself in the vibrant art scene in Rome and create new work is something I have long dreamed of.”
During his time showcasing The Italian Job, Nick captivated audiences with powerful imagery and emotional depth, showcasing both his Dark Art collection and iconic rock photography. The enthusiastic reception he received has only fueled his passion for his craft.
As he prepares for this new chapter, Nick looks forward to sharing his experiences and creations with art lovers. “I invite everyone to stay tuned for updates on my work and upcoming exhibitions. If you’re interested in attending my future shows, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!”
This residency at the Medina Art Gallery represents a fantastic opportunity for Nick to further explore his artistic vision, engage with the local community, and contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the city. As he embarks on this exciting journey, fans and followers can expect to see even more innovative and thought-provoking works from this talented artist.
Nick at The Medina Art Gallery Rome..
This is such a big gig for me!! To be accepted as a credible artist really is a dream come true. If it’s possible to make Italy richer than it is now I hope to do exactly that with the work.
Nick has been very excited about being approached by Producer and Director Kris Smith from the production company TV Bandits about his lead role in the brand new feature film Diamond Dogs.
The film which stars Nick as the character Paul Canterbury along side his co host of 2Go Mad in Norfolk Andy Blithe, playing the role of Rick Foster, the pair play two heavy duty villains getting together to commit the very last blag before they retire for good.
The film is in the true sense of the word a proper English comedy.
Last week saw the full crew shooting the first four scenes of the film in the picturesque setting of Paignton, and Brxham in Devon.
Pictured below:
Filming starts in Devon for the new production..
“Nick is one of a kind, a unique actor, who has provided more than just his genuine charismatic performance on Diamond Dogs. He also collaborated on the script to bring out more comedic value on set. Something that is very rare these days.”
Kris Smith Producer, Director.
It’s a marvellous opportunity for me to be offered my first main acting role in any feature film, having been asked many times to do cameo parts before in various productions.
It’s been a long time in the planning, a lot of meetings, a lot of conversations and an awful lot of upset to produce this body of work. But this a fine art coffee table book, ‘DARK SIDE Of MY MIND’ published by elliottstudios publishing, and is the first of a series of five books due to be released in the next 12 months.
It’s a body of work that I am so pleased and proud of that I found the need to make it’s destination printed media. It’s part of a very big project titled ‘Loss’ that documents in images a lifetime of mental anguish and emotional torture.
The series will continue and the project will continue as I am already starting work on a brand-new collection. It’s pretty much an ongoing thing.
Earl Slick with Nick outside Rough Trade in Bristol.
Well we hadn’t seen each other for nearly 4 years. The last time was just before the Covid situation kicked off big time and the lockdown happened.
But only for a short time, he was back in the UK for the launch of his biography “Guitar Earl Slick ” we managed to spend some time together before and after the show.
Obviously we’ve kept in touch in that period through emails and messaging but there’s nothing like seeing somebody face-to-face. We chatted about the book, and shot a little footage for the VT for a short that we’re going to be doing soon. And the project that we’ve been working on for nearly 6 years.
Coffee table book, a Rockumentary “When Nick Met Slick” a collection of unseen fly in the wall images that Nick and Earl have been working on jointly leading up to the pandemic.
To be released later this year 2024
Nick & Slick catch up.

With the sign copy of the book.
It was lovely to see my dear friend again. It’s been way too long.
Watch this space for news of the new Fine Art Photographic Book “When Nick Met Slick”
“Being invited along to ‘Nick Elliott – The Story So Far’ that hot evening last May was without doubt one of the best nights out we had all year.
The Forum in Norwich proved to be the perfect setting for Nick to tell his fascinating life story being an intimate theatre venue where the invited audience of friends, family and some of the many people who have played a part in Nick’s story so far enjoyed the premiere of Nick’s open, honest and at times very poignant, raw and moving first person documentary film.
Footage and photos accompanied memories and people, places and times gone by in the 90 minute documentary which drew on the audience’s emotions from laughter at the many memories and anecdotes to complete silence during revelations of the darker episodes of Nick’s more recent past. This extraordinary film was followed by an informal and insightful Q and A session where Nick pulled no punches at answering audience questions in his own unique style which rounded off a fabulous evening in the company of one of the rock world’s most talented and respected rock art photographers; the inimitable Nick Elliott.
The only unanswered questions I had following the night are ‘When’s the next one?’ ‘And can we come along again please?’
Shaun Coomer
Left to Right, Shaun Coomer, Nick Elliott, and Rachel Bradley.
……..The Story So Far A completely spellbinding evening unravelling Nick’s life story. I felt enormously privileged to be there and see it unravel. Nick’s talents are second to none, and seeing his life laid bare, ( especially the Dark Side ) left me feeling enormously emotional. Nick’s Artwork will be renowned forever.. as the man himself will be! Lots of laughter and a few tears… I wait in anticipation for Part Two… I know there’s lots more to come!
Avril Beddows.
Left to Right Avril Beddows, Nick Elliott, Sarah Ward
nick elliott rock art photographer official
