Beatles - George Harrison | 1967

Beatles George Harrison, 1967, by Richard Avedon

In 1967, renowned photographer Richard Avedon captured a series of portraits of The Beatles, including this striking image of George Harrison. The poster features Harrison adorned with vivid psychedelic enhancements: his face is overlaid with bright orange hues, while his eyes and background are tinted in electric green. Intricate patterns reminiscent of Indian henna designs embellish his forehead and hand, reflecting his deep interest in Indian culture and spirituality. Harrison's serene expression, combined with the vibrant colours and motifs, encapsulates the era's psychedelic aesthetic and the band's experimental phase.

This portrait was part of a set commissioned by The Beatles' manager, Brian Epstein, aiming to visually represent the band's evolution during the "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" period. Avedon's transformative approach mirrored the cultural shift of the 1960s, as Western youth embraced Eastern philosophies and psychedelic experiences. The posters were first published in the January 9, 1968, issue of "Look" magazine in the United States and later in "Stern" magazine in Germany.

Richard Avedon (1923–2004) was an influential American fashion and portrait photographer known for his innovative and minimalist style. Beginning his career at "Harper's Bazaar" and later contributing to "Vogue," Avedon redefined fashion photography by capturing models in dynamic poses and expressive contexts. Beyond fashion, he was celebrated for his penetrating portraits of cultural and political figures, aiming to reveal the essence of his subjects.