Posted on November 24, 2023
REVIEW OF ‘THE STORY SO FAR.’
There are many adages out there; you get the scene: wise sayings, meaningful truths and the like. There are two examples of this particular genre which come to mind. Why? Well let me tell you: they are printed on canvas and hang in my kitchen. One says ‘keep calm and carry on.’ The other says: ‘housework can’t kill you but why take the chance?’ Both, of course, are true in so many ways. But, let’s get to the heart of them. Calmness, in adversity, is a very noble trait. Avoiding risk is another prime example of practicality over possibility. Both, however, I would argue are subjective risks. I would ask you to bear this in mind when it comes to viewing ‘The Story So Far’ a biopic of the world famous rock photographer, Mr Nick Elliott, filmed by Mr Andy Blythe of ‘Aturnfilms’ (2023). Here is a film which is both thought provoking and desperate; a celebration of life and a cry for help; an articulation of a life well lived, and an acknowledgement of demons ever present. And, of course, the title of the film implies a consideration, at least, as to what is to follow. The entire premise of the film had me hooked immediately. It questions many assumptions I had believed applied tomy life. It grapples with conundrums via an exquisite articulation of the human condition. It is a beautiful, yet challenging, watch. You can hang as many adages on your kitchen wall as you like, profound or not, but you will probably select to use the word ‘displaying’ rather than ‘hanging’ after viewing this masterpiece.
So, what do we have? Essentially, in football parlance, we have ‘a game of two halves.’
In the opening few minutes, Nick is recorded as saying that he has ‘been looking for a proper job since 1979.’ By a strange quirk of fate, the exact same sentiment can be said of me, because in that year I entered the noble profession of teaching and stayed there until I retired. But there the similarities end: I did not have the balls to do something about it. Nick, on the other hand, did. As Nick mentions: for him ‘…the line moves all the time.’ This film is witness to that.
To keep the football analogy moving, the first part of the film, is a whistle-stop voyage through Nick’s formative years and the influences they had on him. Through a series of reminiscences with people who have featured in Nick’s life, ranging from friends, neighbours, his brother (who lovingly refers to Nick as a ‘maverick’,), work colleagues and show-business personalities, we get a glimpse of what it is that formulates his take on things. We are transported to various locations which have been a part of his life, and are regaled with stories about the significance of ‘Number 51,’ Peterborough Lido, privets, a ‘fourteen hour coffee’, not to mention useful advice on how to avoid the cross-country run at school, and contemplations on ‘…the moon and space and all that kind of stuff!’
The second emphasis of the film, however, is by way of a complete contrast. Presented in atmospheric episodic clips, this part recounts, with absolute frankness, what Nick refers to as the dark art or, to use Nick’s own words, the ‘…heavy shit.’ It is not my remit here to give you a blow-by-blow account of the exact nature of what is revealed, suffice to say that it is shocking, mind-blowing, and deeply upsetting, if you want it to be. So, I am not offering a spoiler alert; there is no need to. But, I will say this: what is presented before you is, without doubt, totally honest; almost brutal, fringing on the surreal yet ultimately life-affirmingbecause ‘…the chair slipped.’
As Nick himself states: it has ‘been a rough trip but a good trip’ and a trip that he would happily take again. Thank God for that.
Can I offer any criticism? Not really. I was left wanting more. I wanted to learn more about the enigma that is Nick Elliott; his hopes, his fears, his motivation, his spirituality and his reasoning. But, there’s the rub, as Shakespeare once put it. This is a film about the story so far. I hope that probably, possibly, there is a fantastic tale yet to be revealed. In other words, let’s hope there is more to come from this enigmatic and inspiring soul.
Christopher M. Moore,
Author of ‘A Stroke Of Luck’, ‘Mrs Jay Meets The Creation Ratio’ and ‘Not Quite At That Level Yet.’
A massive big thank you to Chris for this wonderful review.
So glad you enjoyed the film Chris!
Nick Elliott Rock Art Photographer…
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Posted on September 17, 2023
Wonderful news!
The project 50 years on the job a fine art coffee table book by Nick Elliott Rock Art Photographer has been picked up by one of the Nationals. http://www.holdthefrontpage.co.uk took the story up late last week, and here it is!
by David Sharman Published 13 Sep 2023
A photographer has postponed his planned retirement after celebrating half a century working for a regional newspaper.
David Lowndes has stated his intention to “stay on” at the Peterborough Telegraph, where he began his career as a photographic assistant and trainee photographer in September 1973.
David, pictured, revealed last year that he originally planned to retire in September 2023.
He has served as the paper’s sole photographer, on a freelance basis, since 2014.
Speaking to HTFP, he said: “I am staying on at the newspaper, maybe – if they will have me – for a couple of more years while I am fit enough.
“I started at the Peterborough Evening Telegraph in September 1973 as a photographic assistant/trainee photographer. There were seven photogs using medium format cameras and hand-processed black and white negs and prints.
“We obviously served through the best time in the industry – the seventies and eighties before new technology and mobile phones with cameras appeared.
“Years later the newspaper went ‘morning edition’ and then weekly and by 2014 the photographic department was disbanded, leaving me as the sole photographer for the paper.
“It has been a privilege to document half a century of history in Peterborough, I have enjoyed it immensely and met many people – which is why it is so difficult to hang up my camera.
“A project coming up, with the help of Rock Art photographer Nick Elliott, is to produce a pictorial book to celebrate my 50 years.
“It should be completed by the end of the year which will be followed by several exhibitions, talks and book signings to highlight Nick’s images of me and my work.”
More to come.
Nick Elliott Rock Art Photographer
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Posted on September 13, 2023
Who would’ve thought it!
A conversation that took place a few months ago over our regular meet up for an Indian meal in Peterborough now turned out to be a massive 12 month long project. The project will celebrate the 50th year of my dear friend, David Lowndes’ service as press photographer for the Peterborough Telegraph…
The project came about when Dave let me know that September this year he would be celebrating his 50th year working for the paper as a press photographer.
Dave and my friendship goes back that far. We work together on the Peterborough Evening Telegraph when it was the evening paper way back in the 70s, and Dave actually replaced me when I left in 1976 to pursue my present career.
I really didn’t have to give it much thought on what I’d like to do as a personal gift to Dave for his time, our friendship and his service to the world of newspapers.
We spoke briefly and decided that we would produce a fine art coffee table book documenting his 50th year on the paper and also to take the lid off the man’s personal life what a lot of people actually don’t know about
Since then the project has got a massive response we now have an agreement from Waterstones bookshop that will be carrying the book for sale this Christmas, along with a Tour Exhibition that will be visiting four venues throughout the next 12 months starting on March the 29th at the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery, who will be hosting a Q&A along with book signing, meet and greet, plus exhibition show casing 22 images from the final publication.
We are so pleased to also welcome an exclusive sponsorship deal that will be involved in the whole project over the full 12 months.
They’ll be lots more news on the actual plans for the project as we move nearer to Christmas 2023.
I am so so excited about this project we are still in the process of shooting the images for the book but that’s expected to be done by around about late October.
It’s been totally wonderful to spend some quality time with a very dear friend and a respected colleague and we’ve had a lot of laughs on the way.
Good times indeed!!!
Nick Elliott Rock Art Photographer..
Category: Art, Books, Celebrations, Collections, Exhibitions, Featured image, Galleries, International, International Office, Interviews, Italy, Media Coverage, personal, Portfolio, Projects, rockumentary, rockumentarys, Shoot Tagged: art, blog, exhibition, fine art, interview, lifestyle, media, media coverage, media-coverage, News, Party Time, personal, photographer, photography, pr, print, projects, rock art photographer, shows, social media
Posted on September 13, 2023
It’s here!
The new DVD is due for release before October 1st this year.
It’s been a long time coming, but it is eventually here and totally finished, and you’ll be able to buy the DVD on the nick elliott shop before the 1st of October ready to make that special Christmas gift.
This is the DVD version of the whole film from the documentary that we have been filming over the past 4 1/2 years documenting my life past, present and possibly a little bit of the future.
Following a very successful film premiere hosted in Norwich at the city’s famous Forum earlier in the summer, the film runs for one hour 10 minutes and it is presently being hosted and streamed by several of the biggest streaming networks on the planet.
You can own a copy if you were unable to come to the premier in May.
Vist: http://www.nickelliott.photography and click on the Nick Elliott Shop to purchase your copy.
I hope you enjoy every minute!
Nick Elliott Rock Art Photographer..
Category: Art, Books, Conceptual Art, documentary film, Film documentaries, International, International Office, Interviews, Italy, Media Coverage, Official Website, personal, Portfolio, rockumentary, rockumentarys Tagged: art, book, film, fine art, interview, lifestyle, media, media coverage, media-coverage, music, News, online, photographer, photography, pr, projects, radio, rock, rock art photographer, social media, store, TV, video
Posted on September 2, 2023
Well!
After it taking so long to actually make the Nick Elliott Podcasts show a reality, I’m so glad I did!
Over the past three or four months, since starting the very first show, it seems to have gained so much momentum. We have many followers and we are now well approaching the 500 download Mark! Unfortunately, sometimes it’s a case of just a lack of time, making these additions a regular event, but when I do the same and are turning out to be very successful.
Make sure you continue to listen.
Vist: http://www.nickelliottpodcasts.com to catch all the back shows.
Nick Elliott Rock Art Photographer
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Posted on April 23, 2023
Finally after nearly a 3 year break, due to the on going pandemic issues with the dreaded Covid, the last time I was in at Siren, I was making the 55th Sound and Nick’s Vision Radio Show. This last week I was invited back to the SirenFM Studios as a guest to talk about the forthcoming premiere of the documentary “Nick Elliott The Story So Far.’’
The launch of the film, with a very special VIP premiere is to be held at The Forum, Norwich on Saturday May 20th with Alex Lewzcuk being on that very exclusive guest list. He decided that we needed to have a chat live on air on his Mid Week Drive Show hosted by Alex each Wednesday Evening on the station.
We were joined by a a few special guests while tasting some hand made environmentally friendly chocolate, along with interviews and chats with a few of the regulars from around the globe.
It was great to get back into a proper studio again after such a long time. I do think that Zoom has it’s place when doing interviews over a long distance or internationally. But you just can’t beat live radio.
Nick Elliott Rock Art Photographer
Category: Art, Books, Celebrations, Conceptual Art, Exhibitions, Film documentaries, International, International Office, Interviews, Italy, Media Coverage, Official Website, personal, Projects, Radio Show’s, Sound & Nick's Vision, USA Tagged: art, blog, interview, lifestyle, media, media coverage, media-coverage, News, Norfolk, online, Party Time, photographer, photography, pr, projects, radio, rock, rock art photographer, shows, social media, TV
Posted on May 13, 2022
Nick has been developing a virtual online gallery where a selection of his fine art images can be displayed in the most initiative way and reflect the quality of his creations.
Nick has chosen seventeen previously unseen images of guitar legend Earl Slick, from his Rockumentary project that lasted several years. Nick had been documenting Slick for a new publication, crammed full of professional, onstage and candid shots of Slick. Over the duration of the project the pair have cemented their friendship and endeavour to meet up every time Slick comes to the U.K.
The virtual gallery displays a small proportion of those images of Slick in a unique 3D virtual style. Nick plans to change the images every three months to keep his visitors captivated by displaying his fine art rock images and some of his new conceptual pieces.
“I think this is a great way to display and promote my fine art. I’ve been looking to do this project for a long time and have found the perfect suitable platform, that does justice for my work.” Nick Elliott.
To enter the gallery and see for yourself some of Nick’s iconic unseen fine art visit https://publish.exhibbit.com/gallery/747199486089968736/solo-gallery-91020/
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Posted on May 6, 2022
Nick and the elliottstudios team have been working flat out to prepare for a very special exhibition showcasing some of Nick’s most outstanding fine art images. The exhibition will include narrative from Nick, and filmed by elliottblithefilms. It will be predominantly designed for broadcasting across the USA via Nicks USA Representative to selective galleries. However the finished video can be viewed in the U.K. at a later date.
The exhibition will be recorded at an undisclosed location at the end of the month. It will display a large amount of Nick’s fine Art images, including some that have been carefully chosen from his unseen archive.
“ This is a really special exhibition experience. It allows the elliottstudios to showcase my work in a very unique way that will be kicking”. ( Nick Elliott)
As previously stated Nick’s U.K. fan base and fine art collectors, need not worry about missing out, as they will have the opportunity to see the exhibition at a slightly later date.
Category: International Office Tagged: advertising, americana, art, blog, book, exhibition, film, fine art, interview, media, media coverage, media-coverage, News, photographer, photography, portraits, pr, print, projects, rock, rock art photographer, shows, social media, store, TV, video
Posted on March 6, 2022
Several weeks ago Nick was commissioned by the heavy rock band Unholy Alliance, for a rather special shoot at the disused airbase, RAF Sculthorpe in Norfolk.
The talented and well respected band have been together for four years and have been rocking audiences around the U.K with their energetic performances. A USA tour is on the cards for September this year which is generating much excitement amongst their overseas fan base.
Ady Bailey’s, distinct lead locals heads up the band, with Nick Jackson-Wynch on lead guitar and support vocals, Richard Griswell, drummer and Michael Tatler, bass guitar. Rising from the ashes of the bands past association with English Dogs, Unholy Alliance continues to demonstrate their creative superiority with original compositions, angry, demonstrative vocals and impressive musical abilities. Unholy Alliance have already notched up two successful albums and continue to go from strength to strength in the music industry.
The band arrived at the bitterly cold, shoot location after a long drive from the North of England. After a brief wardrobe change, it was down to business. Nick seized the opportunity to create some adventurous and unique shots of the band that epitomises their music.
“Sculthorpe is a great location and opportunity to shoot some really exciting images of the band. It’s got a lot of atmosphere and unique hidden corners to get something really face melting for the guys.” Nick Elliott
The shoot went onto the evening time, and Nick continued to shoot with the use of all available light, a technique which he is well know for in his creative fine art.
Once a wrap was called, Nick, the elliottstudios team and the band all went for a well deserved and very tasty meal at one of Nick’s favourite restaurants.
“It was great to work with Unholy Alliance, they are a top bunch of guys. Let’s do it again sometime.” Nick Elliott
Category: International Office Tagged: art, fine art, media coverage, music, News, Party Time, photographer, photography, pr, projects, punk, rock, rock art photographer, social media
Posted on March 6, 2022
Slán go fóill, as they say in Ireland translates into the endearing phrase, ‘Goodbye, stay safe and see you very soon’, which is exactly what Nick and the elliottstudios team are planning for.
After a wrap was called for the very successful commissioned Irish Tour, shooting Simon Collins and his album collaborator, Kelly Nordstrom for album artwork and promo material, it’s now time for the team to head home and back into the studio where all the hard work starts.
Nick now has hours of editing and post producing over three hundred images taken on the Irish Tour. Each image can take up to an hour to post produce and bring it to the uniquely high, photographic fine art quality that is associated with Nick’s creations.
Prior to his departure, Nick and Simon discussed further collaborations, which will see Nick and the team travelling back to Ireland in the late Spring, Summer and Autumn, for further commissioned shoots for Simon’s next three albums. Simon is also keen for Nick to document an upcoming project between himself and his father, Phil Collins (lead singer and drummer for Genesis) which will take place in Phil’s hometown of Geneva, Switzerland.
“It’s been an amazing experience to work with two such talented musical geniuses and professionals. I’m looking forward to seeing the guys again and creating some more face melting art with them.” Nick Elliott.
Andy Blithe, who accompanied Nick to Ireland, took the opportunity to add more film footage to his documentary, ‘The story So Far’, chronicling the life of Nick due for release at selected cinemas and TV later this year.
Category: International Office Tagged: art, blog, book, exhibition, fine art, interview, media, media coverage, media-coverage, News, Party Time, personal, photo-doc, photographer, photography, portraits, pr, progressive rock, rock, rock art photographer, social media
Posted on March 6, 2022
As Nick’s Irish Tour draws to a successful close, it was time for a little down time to relax and enjoy the local surroundings with some of its charming characters.
Nick has been on a commissioned shoot on location in Kerry Ireland for several days. The purpose of the shoot was to supply album artwork and promo material for Simon Collins new album, out for an Autumn release in the U.K. Simon, Genesis drummer and son to Phil Collins, has been collaborating with Kelly Nordstrom, acclaimed Canadian guitarist, to produce a progressive rock album from Collins Irish studios.
Nick, has travelled to the Emerald Isle to capture some atmospheric fine art images of the duo at several prominent locations around The Republic Of Ireland. Accompanied by Andy Blithe, who is continuing Nick’s documentary of his life story, ‘The Story So Far’ and also documenting the Irish Tour, which has been hailed a resounding success by all participants.
The last day of the tour was an opportunity for everyone to to enjoy some relaxation after several hectic days shooting.
Simon Collins was keen to take Nick and the team to the local pub for some traditional Irish cuisine and beverages. Attracting the locals attention, it gave everyone the opportunity to swap some stories and even Nick swapped T- Shirts with an enthusiastic fan who recognised our world renowned photographer and Simon Collins.
Discussion’s are now taking place for a return trip for further commissioned shoots regarding Simon’s future albums that he is now working on.
Category: International Office Tagged: art, blog, book, fine art, media, media coverage, media-coverage, music, News, personal, photographer, photography, portraits, pr, progressive rock, projects, rock, rock art photographer, social media, t-shirts
Posted on March 3, 2022
Nick is still hard at it on his Irish Tour, shooting with Simon Collins and Kelly Nordstrom to create unique album artwork and promo material for Simon and Kelly’s new album, due for a autumn U.K. release.
The shoot location has moved inside to Simon’s state-of-the-art music studio near the picturesque Irish town of Kenmare, situated on the Kenmare Bay it is often referred to as the jewel in the Ring Of Kerry. The Ring Of Kerry is a popular scenic drive in Ireland’s southwest County Kerry and takes in coastal and rugged landscapes on it’s circular route.
The landscape of Ireland has proven to be a breathtaking opportunity for Nick to produce his art and source an abundance of shoot locations.
Nick has been blown away with the Irish hospitality and the magical landscape of Southern Ireland.
“This shoot is absolutely amazing, not only the wonderful locations and photographic opportunities that Ireland has to offer, but the elliottstudios team has been made so welcome by Simon, Kelly and the Collins family. We couldn’t have wished for a better trip or hosts. It’s absolutely busting!” Nick Elliott.
Back in Simon’s studio, the team had some valuable down time from shooting and a well deserved drink. Simon and Kelly, proving to be Ireland’s most fantastic host’s, took time out to present Nick and the team with some signed memorabilia for the studio.
“Time for a JD, I think.” Nick Elliott
And it’s not over yet. Keep connected to nickelliott.info for more Irish tour updates.
Category: International Office Tagged: art, fine art, media, media coverage, media-coverage, News, Party Time, personal, photographer, photography, pr, progressive rock, projects, rock, rock art photographer, social media