Baron Wolman stood at the Summer of Love’s forefront with a camera in hand. His photographs of the legendary Woodstock music festival redefined what music photography could mean, as he captured Woodstock’s patrons with the same care and focus as he gave the movement’s heroes, from Jimi Hendrix to Janis Joplin. This month, his photography is going back on display to inspire the youth of London.
Wolman became Rolling Stone magazine’s first Chief Photographer, operating from 1967 through to the late 70s. During his time as a music photographer, he became renowned for his spontaneous and erratic approach to concert photography. He says in a press release, “I ended up spending most of my time out in the wild with the crowd because what was happening out there was just too interesting not to explore.”
Woodstock’s cultural significance reaches far beyond just music. The festival acted as a peaceful protest against the Vietnam War, and is still used as a primary example of how a countercultural event can make a global impact. Woodstock imagery remains ubiquitous in 2016, as it appeals to a youth culture dissatisfied with the current political climate.
Wolman’s black and white photos have taken on another life as a beacon of nostalgia for the Coachella generation, and you can revisit them during the summer of 2016. The images will be on display at London’s Proud Camden from July 28-September 11. For now though, check out Wolman’s ode to the fabled three days of peace below.
“Woodstock by Baron Wolman” is on show at Proud Camden, July 28 through September 11, 2016.
Credits
Text Annie Armstrong
Photos courtesy of Proud Camden Gallery