Robert Whitaker (13 November 1939 – 20 September 2011) was a celebrated British photographer known for his iconic photographs of The Beatles from 1964 to 1966, including the famous "Butcher Cover" featured on the 1966 US album "Yesterday and Today." He also collaborated with the rock band Cream, contributing photos to the cover of their 1967 LP, "Disraeli Gears."
Born in Britain in 1939, Whitaker considered himself "one part Aussie lad" due to his Australian heritage, with his father and grandfather originating from Australia. Although he primarily pursued his photography career in Britain, Australia played a significant role in his personal and professional life.
Whitaker began his photography journey in late 1950s London but moved to Melbourne in 1961. During his three-year stay in Australia, he became part of the thriving Melbourne arts scene, thanks to his friendships with influential figures like Georges Mora and Mirka Mora. This period significantly influenced his photography as he interacted with prominent Australian artists and intellectuals, including John Reed, Sunday Reed, Ian Sime, Charles and Barbara Blackman, Barrett Reid, Laurence Hope, Arthur Boyd, Sidney Nolan, and Joy Hester, as well as his contemporaries like Martin Sharp, Richard Neville, Barry Humphries, and Germaine Greer. His camera documented portraits of these individuals, as well as the Mora family, including Philippe Mora, William Mora, and Tiriel Mora, who later gained recognition in fields like filmmaking and acting.
In 1967, Whitaker had the opportunity to meet Salvador Dalí, the renowned Spanish artist. At the time, Whitaker was already a well-established photographer, known for his work with iconic rock groups like the Beatles and Cream. Their meeting led to a lasting friendship, as Whitaker's lens provided an intimate perspective on Dalí. While Dalí projected a flamboyant public image, Whitaker's photographs revealed a different side—a smart, dedicated artist with a genuine sense of humor, often misunderstood. Whitaker had unparalleled access to Dalí, capturing him at work and leisure, including moments on his boat and visits to the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona, which significantly influenced Dalí's creative expressions. These photographs offer an insider's view of Salvador Dalí's life and artistry, shedding light on the man behind the eccentric public persona.
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