Bootle photographer showcases local music icons at new exhibition in Birkenhead 

The exhibition in Birkenhead will feature images of Bill Ryder-Jones, Miles Kane, Ian Prowse.

Music and event photographer Michelle Marshall from Bootle, has work featured in a new exhibition, Through the Lens, in Birkenhead next week.

Images of former The Coral member Bill Ryder-Jones in the Garden at Future Yard, Birkenhead-born Miles Kane at Leasowe Castle, and Ian Prowse former frontman of Amsterdam and Pele in the Liverpool Philharmonic Music Room, will be part of Through the Lens at Hamilton Vault studios.  

The exhibition capturing moments, emotions and stories from around the world, Michelle has chosen to concentrate in on the local, producing images focusing on the intensity and joys of live performance.

Michelle said:

“Capturing live performances is without a doubt my passion. The music, lighting and movement all combines to create moments of vulnerability to sheer joy from the artist which is conveyed to the audience. I’m lucky to be able to capture these moments and freeze them in time for others to enjoy.”

The images in the exhibition are:

Miles Kane, Skeleton Coast Festival, August 2019
“When I look back at this image, it  conveys a time before covid and lockdowns, when I took live music events for granted. I’ve captured the raw interaction with the crowd in this picture which is difficult to get at much larger venues.” 

Ian Prowse, Philharmonic Music Room July 2023
“This image was taken at the series of summer shows Ian holds every year. I love the colours in this picture and the atmosphere that night was electric. Ian has the most loyal and passionate fans which made it very memorable for me. This photo is also featured outside the venue itself.”

Bill Ryder-Jones, Yawn Again at Future Yard Garden July 2024:
“It was my first time at Future Yard and seeing Bill Ryder-Jones so didn’t know what to expect on both counts, but neither disappointed! I enjoy capturing black and white shots which I feel fits this image perfectly.” 

Michelle’s work is currently on display at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall and features on numerous album releases including The Stairs’ Edgar Jones, posters and promotional material for musicians.

Her work is also featured in numerous articles and interviews with artists such as former Everton footballer Ronny Goodlass, Peter Doherty from The Libertines, Ronan Keating and former Beatles drummer Pete Best.

She regularly photographs for venues and organisations across Merseyside including Africa Oye, Mellowtone Records, the Jockey Club, and The British Music Experience Museum.

Through the Lens is at Hamilton Vault Studios, I Hamilton Square Birkenhead CH41 6AU from 13 Sept – 24 Sept. 11am – 4pm, entry is free.

For more on Through the Lens click here.

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