Step into the electrifying world of early rock and roll with a captivating collection of photographs by Alfred Wertheimer, showcasing a young Elvis Presley on the cusp of global superstardom. Presented by Danziger Gallery in collaboration with MUUS Collection, this exhibition offers an intimate and unparalleled look at the “King of Rock and Roll” during a pivotal week in 1956. These candid images capture unguarded moments, revealing Elvis’s raw charisma, youthful energy, and the magnetic presence that would soon conquer the world.
The Genesis of a Legend
In March 1956, a chance encounter arranged by RCA Victor’s head of public relations, Anne Fulchino, connected Wertheimer with the rising star. Fulchino, seeking imagery of the recently signed artist, tasked the then-twenty-something Wertheimer with photographing Elvis. What followed was a remarkable week where Wertheimer documented Elvis with unprecedented access, capturing over 3,000 frames that provide an intimate portrait of the burgeoning icon. The photographs serve as a vital historical record, offering a stark contrast to later portrayals of Elvis, such as the complex character depicted in Sofia Coppola’s film “Priscilla,” where he is shown as both affectionate and unfaithful. Wertheimer’s lens focused on Elvis’s youth, both emotionally and physically, during this formative period.
Unfettered Access, Enduring Legacy
Alfred Wertheimer’s ability to gain such unfettered access to Elvis Presley, without the presence of handlers or assistants, is a testament to the trust and rapport he established. This level of intimacy is almost unimaginable in today’s media landscape. Wertheimer’s photographs, taken during this crucial week in 1956 (and a second session in 1958), capture Elvis in candid, unposed moments, radiating the electrifying energy that defined his early career.
Wertheimer’s prolific career extended beyond his iconic Elvis images. He was a principal cinematographer for the landmark 1970 documentary “Woodstock.” However, for nearly two decades, his significant body of work featuring Elvis garnered little attention. This changed dramatically on August 16, 1977, the day Elvis Presley passed away, igniting a renewed global interest in his legacy and the early photographs that documented his rise. No other photographer would ever capture Elvis Presley with such profound closeness again.
For inquiries regarding the availability of these historic prints, please contact info@danzigergallery.com.