Legendary music photographer Scarlet Page is set to unveil her highly anticipated exhibition, "Held: Three Decades Of Artists And Their Gibson Guitars," at the prestigious Gibson Garage London. The exhibition, slated to run from September 23, 2026, to February 2027, promises a captivating journey through over 30 years of Page’s unparalleled work, celebrating the visceral power of live music and the enduring iconic status of Gibson guitars. This extensive collection will feature over 30 compelling portraits, offering a rare glimpse into the lives and artistry of some of the most influential musicians of the modern era.
Scarlet Page has carved an indelible mark in the annals of music photography, amassing a remarkable archive of live performances and intimate artist portraits. Her career, spanning more than three decades, has seen her traverse the globe, capturing electrifying moments on stage with bands like the Foo Fighters, sharing dressing room intimacy with artists such as Robbie Williams, and navigating the frenetic energy of the Glastonbury Festival pit. Her new exhibition is not merely a retrospective of her career but a curated exploration of the profound connection between artists, their instruments, and the transformative experience of live performance.
The exhibition’s title, "Held," speaks to the profound resonance of these captured moments, suggesting a sense of permanence and significance bestowed upon each artist and their beloved Gibson. This theme is vividly illustrated through a selection of iconic images that will be on display. Among the highlights is a striking portrait of Alex Turner, captured during Arctic Monkeys’ triumphant return to Glastonbury in 2023, a performance that solidified their status as one of the era’s most vital live acts. The exhibition also features a powerful shot of Angus Young of AC/DC, taken in 2003 while supporting The Rolling Stones, a testament to the enduring legacy of hard rock and its pioneers.
Page’s long-standing relationship with bands is further exemplified by her inclusion of a photograph of The Darkness, taken during her year as their official photographer in 2004. This period provided her with unparalleled access, allowing her to document the band’s explosive energy from within. Another significant piece showcases Paul Weller, the "Modfather," captured backstage at the Royal Albert Hall during a Teenage Cancer Trust benefit concert. Page’s commitment to this charity, which she has supported throughout her career, adds a layer of personal significance to the image.
The exhibition will also revisit one of music history’s most poignant and career-defining moments: Jeff Buckley’s iconic 1995 performance at Glastonbury. Page’s lens was focused on Buckley during this legendary set on the Pyramid Stage, capturing the raw emotion and transcendent artistry that made him a musical icon. The inclusion of this image serves as a powerful reminder of the ephemeral nature of live performance and the lasting impact of truly gifted artists.
Beyond the stage, "Held" delves into the more personal and candid moments of artistic life. A compelling portrait of Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash will be featured, taken during a brief session at Hollywood’s Sunset Marquee hotel. Page recounts how Slash, despite being in a rush to attend his children’s sports game, effortlessly embodied his iconic persona for the camera in mere moments, highlighting the ingrained magnetism of a true rock star.
The breadth of Page’s portfolio is further showcased by the inclusion of a diverse array of artists, many of whom are synonymous with Gibson guitars. The exhibition will feature portraits of musical titans such as Lenny Kravitz, Jack White, Jimmy Page, Wolf Alice, Cat Stevens, Michael Kiwanuaka, Brian Molko of Placebo, Kelly Jones of Stereophonics, Robert Smith of The Cure, John Squire of The Stone Roses, Robbie Williams, Cameron Winter of Geese, and Paul Stanley of KISS. Each of these artists, through their distinct styles and musical contributions, represents a unique chapter in the ongoing narrative of popular music, and their association with Gibson guitars underscores the instrument’s central role in shaping these legacies.
Scarlet Page’s journey into the world of music photography began in 1993, and her first published photograph was of Soundgarden frontman Chris Cornell. This image graced the back cover of Raw magazine and marked the inception of her prolific career shooting for prominent publications. Her early experiences were further honed during the 1994 Lollapalooza tour, where she captured electrifying live performances from The Beastie Boys and The Smashing Pumpkins. Page herself describes this period as where she "cut her teeth," a crucial phase of learning and development.
A significant breakthrough in her career arrived in 1995 when one of her photographs was selected for the cover of The Verve’s critically acclaimed album, "A Northern Soul." This album marked The Verve’s first foray into the Top 20, a monumental achievement for both the band and Page, solidifying her reputation as a sought-after talent in the music industry. Since then, Page has consistently enjoyed privileged backstage access and a front-row perspective to some of the world’s most celebrated performers, consistently delivering images that resonate with authenticity and artistic integrity.
In a music industry historically dominated by men, Scarlet Page emerged as one of the most prominent female rock photographers of her generation. Her success challenged conventions and paved the way for future generations of female creatives in the field. Her ability to capture the essence of her subjects, combined with her technical skill and artistic vision, has earned her widespread respect and admiration.
Reflecting on her extensive archive, Scarlet Page expressed her enthusiasm for the exhibition. "It’s been such a pleasure delving into my archive and rediscovering these photographs," she stated. "Now more than ever, we need live music, and I hope this exhibition reminds people of the power it has to bring us together. The collection brings together live, candid, and studio moments, each capturing a different side of the artists I’ve had the privilege to photograph and their relationship with their Gibson." Her words underscore the exhibition’s dual focus on artistic expression and the iconic instruments that facilitate it.
The Gibson Garage London, the chosen venue for "Held," offers a fitting backdrop for this celebration of music and artistry. As the brand’s first retail space outside the United States, following the successful launch of the Gibson Garage Nashville, it stands as a premier destination for guitar enthusiasts and music lovers in the heart of London. Opened by legendary figures Jimmy Page, Sir Brian May, and Tony Iommi, the Garage embodies Gibson’s rich heritage of over 130 years. Visitors can immerse themselves in this legacy, exploring hundreds of guitars and experiencing the full spectrum of Gibson’s offerings, alongside its sister brands Epiphone, Kramer, and associated audio equipment from MESA/Boogie, Gibson Amplifiers, and Maestro pedals.
The Gibson Garage London is more than just a retail space; it’s a vibrant hub for the music community. It regularly hosts live performances, special events, weekly guitar lessons, and offers exclusive apparel and a Made-to-Measure program for custom instruments. This dynamic environment fosters a sense of connection and shared passion for music, making it the ideal setting for Page’s exhibition.
The exhibition’s run from September 23, 2026, to February 2027 provides ample opportunity for a wide audience to experience Page’s remarkable work. The Gibson Garage London will be open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. For collectors and enthusiasts eager to own a piece of this photographic history, signed limited-edition prints of the exhibited works will be available for purchase through RedHouse Originals.
The impact of Scarlet Page’s exhibition extends beyond the art world. In an era where the live music industry continues to navigate post-pandemic challenges and evolving digital consumption patterns, "Held" serves as a powerful reminder of the irreplaceable value of live performance. The photographs not only document iconic moments but also capture the raw energy and human connection that define concerts, fostering a sense of shared experience that transcends individual listening.
Furthermore, the exhibition highlights the enduring cultural significance of Gibson guitars. For generations, these instruments have been the voice of countless musical movements and artists, from the blues and rock and roll to contemporary genres. By focusing on the relationship between artists and their Gibsons, Page’s work underscores the instrument’s role as a creative partner, an extension of the artist’s voice, and a symbol of musical heritage. The inclusion of such a wide array of artists, all with distinct relationships to the Gibson brand, speaks to its universal appeal and its adaptability across diverse musical landscapes.
The presence of the Gibson Garage London itself, as a physical manifestation of the brand’s commitment to nurturing music culture, further amplifies the exhibition’s resonance. Its opening, marked by the presence of guitar luminaries, signifies a dedication to preserving and promoting the art of music creation and appreciation. By hosting "Held," the Garage reinforces its position as a cultural nexus, bridging the gap between the history of music, the present-day artistry, and the future of musical innovation.
The ongoing dialogue surrounding the representation of women in creative industries will undoubtedly find a significant point of reference in Scarlet Page’s pioneering career. Her success in a historically male-dominated field provides a compelling narrative of perseverance, talent, and vision. The exhibition, by showcasing her extensive body of work, not only celebrates her individual achievements but also contributes to a broader understanding of the diverse voices that have shaped modern music.
As the dates for "Held: Three Decades Of Artists And Their Gibson Guitars" approach, anticipation is building for an exhibition that promises to be a landmark event in the world of music photography. Scarlet Page’s ability to capture the soul of live music and the enduring spirit of iconic artists, intertwined with the timeless allure of Gibson guitars, ensures that this exhibition will be a compelling and unforgettable experience for all who attend. For those seeking further information and updates, following @GibsonGuitarUK on social media will provide the latest news and insights into this significant cultural event.
