Woodstock Anniversary Event Highlights Photographer Elliott Landy
Renowned Woodstock Photographer Elliott Landy will be making a special appearance at the Museum at Bethel Woods during the Woodstock anniversary weekend. The event, titled “Peace Out with Elliott Landy,” is part of the annual celebration of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. This year’s anniversary celebration is generously supported by Robyn Gerry.
Elliott Landy, known for extensively photographing the Woodstock festival and becoming a noted photographer of musicians and rock stars, began his photographic career in 1967 by documenting anti-Vietnam War protests and political activism for underground newspapers. His transition into capturing the rising rock and folk scenes in New York City led to his breakthrough when manager Albert Grossman noticed his photos of Janis Joplin and hired him to photograph The Band for their Music From Big Pink album. This opportunity paved the way for Landy to photograph Bob Dylan for the cover of the Saturday Evening Post in 1968, establishing a lasting creative relationship.
As the official photographer of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, Landy’s images of festival-goers and iconic performers such as Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Joan Baez, and Jim Morrison became emblematic of the era. His portrait photography of rock legends like Bob Dylan, The Band, Janis Joplin, and Van Morrison helped elevate music photography to the status of fine art. Landy’s distinct photography style, characterized by techniques like infrared film and candid imagery, aimed to capture the subconscious spirit of his subjects.
The Woodstock Anniversary Week 2025 will feature various activities, gatherings, celebrations, films, and further exploration of the ongoing Peace Initiative at Bethel Woods. It is a time to honor visionaries, artists, and everyday individuals who still believe in the transformative power of community, music, and peaceful revolution. The presence of Elliott Landy, an iconic photographer who has left an indelible mark on music history, promises to make this event memorable. Whether you’re an admirer of Landy’s work or simply looking to immerse yourself in the spirit of Woodstock, attending this event is an opportunity to experience a piece of cultural history.