It’s been 10 years since the legendary David Bowie has passed and to celebrate his life in a way that reminds us that he wasn’t just a celebrity but also an ordinary person, Addicted Art Gallery has launched a new virtual exhibition, titled Markus Klinko: Bowie, The Heavens.
Before Markus Klinko became a photographer in his own right, he was a classical concert harpist performing with symphony orchestras around the globe until a hand injury caused him to change career paths.
His big break came when he was commissioned by supermodel Iman to photograph the cover of her book ‘I AM IMAN’. During an editing session at Markus’ New York Studio, David Bowie had arrived unexpectedly to help select the images.
It was partway through this session when David suggested that Markus shoot the cover of his then-upcoming album, Heathen.
On 10 October 2001, Markus spent eight hours in his New York Studio with David to create the photographs that sit at the heart of this exhibition. The imagery was meticulously planned and drew on references like Man Ray and even a self-portrait David had taken privately before the session.
In spite of this, David Bowie had a clear idea; to be photographed as a blind man symbolically — a figure who had lost belief, not just in the religious sense but also in systems, politics and inherited truths.
Once the album cover image was secured, David continued to give Markus his time, of which allowed the photographer to capture more photos that were later released as part of his Bowie Unseen series.
