BOB GRUEN
@ LISS GALLERY, TORONTO
SEPTEMBER 14, 2024
An exhibit of the work of Bob Gruen, the eminent photographer best known for his iconic shot of John Lennon in his New York City T Shirt over the New York City skyline, is currently being hosted by Yorkville’s very own Liss gallery to showcase his most iconic pieces throughout the decades.
Entering the venue, you find a room full of passionate media enthusiasts, whether that be music, photography, journalism, or another more abstract form. The walls are dressed in Mr. Gruen’s work and very intentional spotlighting. Servers were admirably wearing the same thing John Lennon was in his renowned photo: a New York City T shirt. Sipping on wine and captivated by the unique perspective of each photograph, the guests are discussing this golden era of music and significance of each scene before them. The gallery featured work from his early fame including portraits of the remarkable Tina Turner, all the way up to today and his recent works with Eurovision winners Måneskin.
It’s widely recognized that Bob Gruen’s work is a series of visually appealing stories in a single shot, there’s no need to boast about what is already known. What is really worthy of being highlighted is the elements brought into his printed photos that cannot be observed through a screen. His pictures were not simply taken and printed, but they were dressed up in luxurious silks and jewels in the most literal way. There is one photo in particular gleams—Mick Jagger in stop motion in 1972, in all his glory singing on stage with the slightest smirk and a classic lively outfit. From across the room, it looks like it’s coated in glitter. Take a couple steps forward, it looks like the sparkle is actually coming from a coat of small shards of glass. Just a couple more steps forward; it’s diamond dust, and how incredibly on brand is that for such a sparkling and charismatic persona! One of the most celebrated artists of the century covered in such lavish material. There’s also a snapshot of Led Zeppelin by their private jet that had been silk screened, giving it such immense depth and fine texture.
Quotes from Gruen’s books can be found among the photos, some of which teasing what was going on behind the scenes, making the work dramatically personal. For instance, on the album cover of Kiss’s Dressed to Kill, Bob Gruen explains that Gene Simmons is wearing his suit and his ex-wife’s clogs.
Center stage, among all the artwork was the legend himself, Bob Gruen. He was seated at a table alongside his wife Elizabeth Gregory Gruen as well as a security guard. Holding himself with such poise, he sat signing copies of his photos and books while engaging in friendly conversations with the admirers of his work.
After a night of indulging in stunning art, the observers left with a deep gratitude for music and photography, and some even left with signed pieces. In a world where art and media are constantly changing, Bob Gruen’s work served as a reminder of the legacy of rock music.
The Bob Gruen Exhibit is at Yorkville’s Liss Gallery from Sept. 3 to Oct. 5. The Liss Gallery is located at 112 Cumberland St.
(Photography by Nada Shoala)
Photos
Bob Gruen Links
