Experience a rare and intimate glimpse into the life of John Lennon through the lens of May Pang, his companion during the intensely creative “Lost Weekend” period. R. Michelson Galleries is proud to present a special three-day free exhibition showcasing May Pang’s photographs of John Lennon, offering a unique perspective on this iconic musician. The exhibition will be held from Friday, September 27th through Sunday, September 29th, with a special opening reception on Friday, September 27th, from 6 – 8 pm.
May Pang and John Lennon exhibition banner
May Pang’s name is synonymous with a fascinating chapter in John Lennon’s life, the “Lost Weekend,” an 18-month period from late 1973 through 1975. Far from being “lost,” this era was remarkably productive for Lennon, both artistically and personally. During this time, May Pang captured candid photographs of Lennon in relaxed, private settings, revealing a side of the superstar rarely seen by the public. This exclusive collection of May Pang Photos will be on display and available for purchase at R. Michelson Galleries, located at 132 Main Street, Northampton, MA. Admission is free, offering everyone a chance to see John Lennon as May Pang intimately knew him.
May Pang herself will be present at R. Michelson Galleries throughout the weekend. Visitors will have the exceptional opportunity to meet May Pang, hear firsthand stories behind these extraordinary limited-edition photographs, and gain deeper insights into her time with John Lennon. Her presence adds a personal touch to the exhibition, making it an unmissable event for fans and photography enthusiasts alike.
The “Lost Weekend” was a period of significant artistic output for Lennon. With May Pang by his side, he produced albums such as “Mind Games,” “Walls and Bridges” – featuring his only #1 hit single “Whatever Gets You Through the Night” – and “Rock and Roll.” This era also saw collaborations with music legends like Elton John, David Bowie, Harry Nilsson, Mick Jagger, and Ringo Starr. Notably, May Pang’s voice can be heard whispering John’s name in the song “#9 Dream,” and the song “Surprise, Surprise (Sweet Bird of Paradox)” was written about her, further cementing her influence during this time.
May Pang portrait by Kenneth J Rimany
Beyond his musical endeavors, May Pang played a crucial role in Lennon’s personal life during the “Lost Weekend.” She encouraged him to reconnect with his family and friends, leading to a significant reunion with Paul McCartney and a historic jam session between the two former Beatles. Pang also facilitated a visit between Lennon and his son Julian after almost three years apart. One of May Pang’s tender photographs of Julian Lennon even graces the cover of Julian’s recent album, “Jude,” highlighting the lasting impact of her photography.
Further enriching the exhibition, a selection of John Lennon’s artwork will also be on display at the gallery, providing a broader context to his creative spirit during this period.
Among the captivating May Pang photos on display are iconic images capturing various facets of Lennon’s life in the 1970s. Titles like “A Face in the Crowd, Disney World, FL 1974,” “A Walk in the Wilderness, Ellenville, NY 1974,” and “California Grass, Palm Springs, CA 1974” offer glimpses into his travels and everyday moments. Photos such as “Company Directors, Los Angeles CA 1974,” “Doing a “Ringo”, Burbank, CA 1974,” and “Dream Dream Away, Long Island Sound, NY 1974” showcase his interactions and creative processes.
A Walk in the Wilderness, Ellenville, NY 1974 May Pang photo
California Grass, Palm Springs, CA 1974 May Pang photograph
Company Directors, Los Angeles CA 1974 May Pang picture
Doing a Ringo, Burbank, CA 1974 May Pang photography
Dream Dream Away, Long Island Sound, NY 1974 May Pang image
Further highlights include “Drinking My Dr. Pepper, NYC 1970,” “Father & Son, Long Island Sound, NY 1974,” and “Here Comes the Sun, Long Island Sound, NY 1974,” capturing both casual moments and tender family connections. These May Pang photos provide a deeply personal and humanizing perspective on John Lennon.
Drinking My Dr. Pepper, NYC 1970 May Pang shot
Father & Son, Long Island Sound, NY 1974 May Pang capture
Here Comes the Sun, Long Island Sound, NY 1974 May Pang photograph of John Lennon
Particularly significant photos within the exhibition are “One Last Time, Santa Monica, CA – March 29, 1974,” capturing one of the last known photographs of John Lennon and Paul McCartney together, and a photograph documenting John Lennon signing the contract to officially dissolve the Beatles – both images previously unavailable to the public. These May Pang photos offer historical weight and unparalleled access to pivotal moments in music history.
One Last Time, Santa Monica, CA – March 29, 1974 May Pang photo of Lennon and McCartney
May Pang’s intimate perspective extends beyond her photographs. She has authored three books about her experiences with Lennon, including “Loving John,” “John Lennon – The Lost Weekend,” and “Instamatic Karma,” further solidifying her role as a key witness to this era.
The exhibition “The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” coincides with the digital release of the documentary film “The Lost Weekend : A Love Story,” offering a multi-faceted exploration of this period in Lennon’s life.
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to explore “The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” and acquire your own piece of music history. Visit R. Michelson Galleries at 132 Main Street, Northampton, MA, from Friday, September 27th to Sunday, September 29th, 2024. Experience John Lennon through the intimate and compelling May Pang photos.
The Lost Weekend – A Love Story movie poster showcasing May Pang’s photographs
