When My Photograph Became a Peter Max Original
Photo taken by Photography G founder, Garrett Hacking of “Mikey” Houser, of Widespread Panic, Interpreted by Peter Max
Garrett’s Original Photograph
When My Photograph Became a Peter Max Original
An Unexpected Call
When Michael “Mikey” Houser of Widespread Panic passed away in 2002, I never imagined that one of my photographs would eventually become part of a very special tribute to him. An artist friend of Peter Max contacted me with an extraordinary request: Would I allow Peter Max to paint one of my photographs of Mikey for a dear friend and fan?
The photograph had been seen by people across the country (including Michael’s mother who loved this photo dearly) through the Associated Press, and now it was about to take on an entirely new life.
From Photograph to Art
Peter Max created his own interpretation of my photograph, transforming a moment I had captured with my camera into an original work of art. It was an incredible honor to see my photograph become the inspiration for a Peter Max painting—and an even more meaningful tribute to Mikey.
Garrett with Peter Max and Friend
Meeting the Legend
Years later, in 2011, I had the opportunity to meet Peter Max in person. He graciously spent time visiting with me and even signed my matted photograph of his original painting (too large to fit in my scanner for this post, I’m afraid).
With Peter Max’s recent passing at 88, I find myself thinking about that remarkable connection between photography, music, and art.
Very cool—and a memory I will always treasure.