Jay Blakesberg: Artist-Led Tour of The RetroBlakesberg Exhibit

Join acclaimed music photographer Jay Blakesberg on Friday, November 15, for an artist-led tour of his latest exhibit, RetroBlakesberg: The Music Never Stopped, now on display through June 15, 2025.

The captivating exhibit, shot only on film, explores three decades of landmark moments in music history, spanning from 1978 to 2008, concluding when Blakesberg switched to full time digital.

Blakesberg will lead two tours, one at 1:00pm and another at 3:00pm, and will share the behind-the-scenes stories behind some of his most iconic shots, discuss his career and answer questions surrounding his impressive body of work.

Tours will run for 45-60 minutes. RSVPs are not required. 

*Please note, Museum admittance required for entry to the event. You can purchase your tickets online or at the box office. 

About Jay Blakesberg

Growing up in New Jersey, a young Blakesberg developed a profound passion for the Grateful Dead and music photography, igniting a lifelong journey of capturing the essence of the artists who create the music we all love, from rock and grunge to hip-hop, psychedelic, folk, blues, and beyond. RetroBlakesberg invites visitors to step into a visual narrative that chronicles the sounds, scenes and stories that have shaped popular music.

About RetroBlakesberg: The Music Never Stopped

Exhibit highlights: 

• 150 striking film photographs featuring an eclectic mix of artists, including Björk, Tracy Chapman, Snoop Dogg, E-40, Nirvana, Radiohead, Tom Waits, and Neil Young. 
• 20 mesmerizing “blue” portraits that showcase musicians including Green Day, Ice-T, The Flaming Lips, and Joni Mitchell created by Blakesberg deliberately choosing the “wrong film” for the “wrong light.” 
• A rich exploration of the Grateful Dead and the band’s vibrant psychedelic scene, a central theme in Blakesberg’s body of work, reflecting his lifelong dedication as a devoted “Dead Head.”