Graham Nash – Life on the Road at Proud Camden

Premiering on Tuesday, Life on the Road displays the photographic works of musician, activist and photographer Graham Nash. As its title would suggest, this fascinating selection of work documents Nash’s travels, providing the viewer with an insight to his rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle and the musicians met along the way.

The opening drew a curious crowd of all ages, eager to catch a glimpse of icons away from the spectacle, with a look into the lives of Joni Mitchell, Neil Young and David Crosby, among many friends and muses of Nash. Live performances accompanied these images with music from the likes of The Lost Brothers, their acoustic set tying in well with the relaxed, mobile aura of the work.

His images are honest and somewhat intrusive. Shots of Joni Mitchell and Neil Young show both musicians caught in pure ecstasy, lost in a melody as one listens and the other plays. The two are pensive, captured off guard and it almost seems that they are oblivious to any outside interruption. A collection of images seen through Nash’s eyes, the images are invasive, but through that the real sitter is revealed. They are memories, a collection of icons as their true selves – as Nash really saw them. 

Life on the Road does not only reveal these musicians, but also Nash himself as he embarks on this journey. Self portraiture is continuous throughout the show, documenting his travels through his own reflection.

Proud Camden gives the viewer the opportunity to look through the eyes of Graham Nash. It is a portrayal of rock ‘n’ roll behind the scenes, capturing the artist away from his audience. His work takes you through over 30 years of this, his self portraits reminding you that time has passed with an aged Nash looking through the last mirror, marking the end of the journey. 

An extensive body of work, recommended for anyone who loves all things rock ‘n’ roll.

Verdict: •••

Harriet Gibson

Photos: Graham Nash

Graham Nash – Life on the Road is on at Proud Camden until 26^th May 2013. For further information click here, and for further information about Graham Nash, click here.