Iconic art joins arrivals at Liverpool Airport

Nov 20 2007 by Liza Williams, Liverpool Daily Post

ICONIC photographs of The Beatles and other world- famous stars were unveiled at John Lennon Airport last night as part of a project to fill the building with artwork for Capital of Culture year.

Large blown-up images of the Fab Four in India, taken by photographer and director Paul Saltzman in 1968, were unveiled in the airport’s departure lounge and the artist himself switched on the works, which are showcased in giant light boxes.

A collection of photographs taken by Harry Goodwin, who snapped the stars for Top of the Pops in the 60s, was also revealed.

Mr Saltzman’s shots of the band, taken at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram in Rishikesh, India, reflect them at their most relaxed but also at their most creative – 48 songs were written during their eight- week stay at the retreat.

No other press or photographers were allowed access and Mr Saltzman stumbled on the band by accident as he travelled to the continent to learn meditation and they became friends.

However, due to the impact the experience had on him, the photographer packed the images away in a cardboard box for 33 years, only revisiting them after his daughter reminded him of the shots.

At the unveiling, he said: “I am completely delighted. How many times in your life do you have time to do something like this?

“The music these guys produced changed my life and meeting them had a profound effect on me. I am delighted they are up here.”

Two exhibitions featuring 83-year-old Mr Goodwin’s work were also revealed. A wall of legends, including The Rolling Stones, Mohammed Ali and Jimi Hendrix, is joined by an exhibition featuring individual shots of John, Paul, George and Ringo.

Mr Goodwin says his favourite subject has been Liverpool funnyman Ken Dodd and he holds a special affection for the city.

He said: “I am from Manchester and am still based there but the city has never recognised me.

“I took photographs for Top of The Pops when it was based in the city for nearly 10 years but it is Liverpool that has shown me kindness.

“I am still working, the secret is never to stop.”

Tom Murphy, sculptor of the famous John Lennon statue which stands within the airport, and Brian Fisher, owner of two John Lennon suits on display as part of the collection, also attended the unveiling of the pieces.

Neil Pakey, managing director of Liverpool JLA, said: “It does not stop here. We want to get the local community involved as well as some performance art.

“The work we have unveiled today is just awesome and is a great way to welcome visitors in 2008.”

lizawilliams