David Bowie, Absolute Beginners, London, 1986, photographed by Chalkie Davies.
Chalkie Davies

David Bowie, Absolute Beginners, London, 1986

Subject not assigned
Price on Request

Questions about edition, framing, or shipping?

Inquire About This Work
About this work

Julien Temple asked Chalkie Davies to photograph the cast of Absolute Beginners. Bowie was filming the promo for the title song on the Thames Embankment, and Davies set up his lights near the Houses of Parliament. The photograph was taken as Big Ben struck midnight.

Only two rolls were shot. On the contacts "there was one frame where he had this big smile", but Bowie's publicist warned he would never approve it, as he never smiled on his record covers. After looking at the pictures together, Bowie chose it. "To this day it's the only time he ever smiled on a cover."

Photograph by Chalkie Davies. Available as a print signed by the artist. Sizes, edition details and price on request.

Specifications
Photographer
Chalkie Davies
Title
David Bowie, Absolute Beginners, London, 1986
Subject
Subject not assigned
Price
On request
Authenticity
Certificate of Authenticity included
Shipping
Worldwide, fully insured
Returns
14-day return policy
Photographer
Chalkie Davies
Photography
Chalkie Davies

From the last night of Ziggy Stardust to The Specials' first album, Chalkie Davies photographed the musicians who shaped British music in the 1970s and 1980s, for the NME, The Face and Rolling Stone.

View all works →
TMPG

Print Sizes & Framing Guide

Print dimensions refer to the photographic print. Matting and framing increase the final dimensions.

TMPG print sizes and framing guide

Framed dimensions are approximate and may vary depending on matting, frame profile and conservation requirements.