Roots, Rock and Rebels: The Photography of Henry Diltz showcases photos and other memorabilia spanning Diltz’s career as one of the go-to photographers in the 1960s, particularly among the Laurel Canyon music scene. His reputation for capturing the perfect frame has kept Diltz working with a variety of major artists for decades.
While on tour with his band, the Modern Folk Quartet, in the early 1960s, Diltz purchased a $20 secondhand Japanese camera and began taking photos of the music being made around him. Since that time, Diltz has captured thousands of images, including many that graced the covers of some of the most iconic record albums of the rock era. Diltz’s easygoing nature and rapport have allowed him to create behind-the-scenes shots that reflect the respect and friendship the musicians in front of the camera have for the musician and artist behind the lens.
His photos of Laurel Canyon musicians are legendary, but Diltz’s work extends far beyond that era and location. Diltz photographed both the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock, and he has worked with major artists such as the Rolling Stones, Garth Brooks, The Doors, Kurt Cobain, Paul McCartney, The Who, and countless others.
Featuring about 100 images, the exhibit displays the scope of Diltz’s artistry behind the lens. Some of the items include never-before-seen excerpts from his notebooks, revealing personal notes on iconic photo shoots.
