Philip Townsend, “The Beatles with Maharishi,” n.d., gelatin silver print, Portland Museum of Art, Maine. Private Collection. ©Philip Townsend Archive.

Rock and Roll provided the soundtrack to American culture of the late 20th century. This exhibition, drawn from the largest private collection of photographs of rock musicians in the country, captures the intimate relationship between photographer and musician. Featuring more than 200 photographs—many rarely seen by the public—the exhibition will include studio portraits and candid outtakes of famous rock and roll stars from Elvis Presley and Jimi Hendrix to Madonna and Courtney Love. Classic images by photographers Lee Friedlander, Kate Simon, Laura Levine, Baron Wolman, Bob Gruen, Jim Marshall, and Lynn Goldsmith will be included in this extraordinary survey of 20th century music and popular culture.

Backstage Pass is made possible by members of the Contemporaries and The VIA Group.

Media support is provided by WCSH 6, The Portland Phoenix, and 102.9 WBLM.