There’s something about Duncan’s photography that feels increasingly rare now. In an age where almost every image of a musician is meticulously managed, polished and approved, Duncan’s work reminds you what made music photography compelling in the first place. 

Spanning more than 35 years, his archive captures some of the world’s most iconic musicians not as untouchable figures, but as people often between moments, off guard, imperfect and all the more interesting because of it.

The instinctive way Duncan shoots feels impossible to manufacture, with pictures that feel less like they were staged for the camera and more like you somehow just happened to witness them. The grain, the movement, the imperfections, all add to the honesty of the moments. 

Each piece is printed on museum-grade Hahnemühle 290gsm Fine Art Agave paper that we selected for its incredible tonal depth and softness, particularly in the blacks and shadow detail which are so integral to Duncan’s work. Every artwork is hand-finished and framed here in London, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity featuring the story surrounding the moment captured on the reverse.

Exhibiting the collection at the Royal Garden Hotel felt very fitting. After spending time here and hearing stories about this hotel’s deep-rooted connection to London’s musical history, from legendary performers staying here after shows at the Royal Albert Hall to its place within Kensington’s wider creative landscape, it became obvious that the setting carried the same energy as the works themselves.