Band on the Wall is delighted to announce that internationally-respected photographer William Ellis has agreed to work with the venue to photograph a number of very special concerts in our upcoming programme. Working closely with the venue and artists, he will be photographing performances and also capture some exclusive backstage images during the 2-year project.
Based in Manchester, in 2008 he was commissioned by the Bridgewater Hall to capture the artistic life of the venue which has culminated in a highly successful exhibition at the Richard Goodall Gallery in the city’s Northern Quarter. In 2009 his work was showcased by the Cornerhouse during a season of classic jazz films presented there.
His work has been exhibited all over the world, including the Royal Academy of the Arts, and he serves on the committee of the Milt Hinton Award for Excellence in Jazz Photography.
His contribution to the culture was recognised by the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City when he was invited to produce the Inaugural International Exhibition in 2005, and where he returned in 2008 to present his work in the ‘Jazz in Black and White: Bebop and Beyond’ exhibit.
His images have been used in the JAM (Jazz Appreciation Month) Outreach program in the United States initiated by the Smithsonian Institution and many of his pictures are in private collections worldwide – including those of the musicians with whom he has worked.
Speaking about working with Band on the Wall, William said:
“’I am delighted to be working with Band on the Wall. It’s a unique venue with great heritage, spirit and warmth that inspires musicians and audience alike playing a crucial role in projecting the city’s vibrant musical culture.”