Globe correspondent Peter Grant previews a stunning exhibition focusing on the photography of Linda McCartney from Abbey Road to West Kirby.
She was a woman of many talents: loving wife and mother; vegetarian innovator; animal activist; singer-songwriter; film star and accomplished member of Wings with husband Paul.
Her achievements as an experimental and spontaneous photographer now provide an awe-inspiring journey ... a magical history tour of Linda's life through a lens.
Linda McCartney - a Retrospective (1941 -1998) is at the Walker Art Gallery from August 8 until November 1.
It's a triumph for the Walker. A 'welcome back' statement with world-wide appeal.
Picture of Linda McCartney, taken by Eric Clapton in 1967, features in the exhibition. (c) Paul McCartney
Linda, born in New York in 1941, was a much-respected photographer.
This lovingly-curated display, by Sarah Brown and the McCartneys, features more than 250 photographs taken by Linda over the decades including images never shown before of the family in Liverpool and Wirral.
The original opening was postponed due to Covid-19 but now with social distancing firmly in place, the Walker Art Gallery is rightly excited about this 'must see' exhibition that works on many different levels for people of all ages.
It is moving, funny, warm and tender and extensive in its themes and styles ... a piece of social history.
The Beatles at Brian Epstein’s home in Belgravia at the launch of Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. London, 1967. (c) Paul McCartney/ Photographer Linda McCartney
Paul McCartney gives the thumbs up to the much-awaited visual showcase: "Our family is very proud of this exhibition.
"The Walker Art Gallery has many special memories for me, from my early days in Liverpool to the present day."
Mary McCartney agrees with her famous dad: "What makes this exhibition unique and special, is the Liverpool Room.
"A little gem of a room with pictures that mum took in Liverpool through the years as I was growing up.
"Liverpool holds a really special place for all of us. But she really embraced it as a city and loved the people there."
Paul and Mary. Scotland, 1969. (c) Paul McCartney/ Photographer Linda McCartney
The exhibition features various other themed rooms with something for everyone. There's Paul in Mathew Street and a picture of dad, Jim. I am sure Paul's younger brother, Mike McCartney (himself a famous photographer) will cherish this captivating photo.
Paul, Stella and James. Scotland, 1982. (c) Paul McCartney/ Photographer Linda McCartney
There are atmospheric shots in Wirral: one at Christmas time in in Heswall with carol singers; another walking in West Kirby with daughter Heather and family dog, Eddie. Another rarity is a winking, bearded Paul standing outside Birkenhead ferry terminal.
The display offers iconic images of Jimi Hendrix and the Rolling Stones and Paul working and relaxing.
There are also some self-portraits of the lovely Linda as well as shots taken by Paul of his wife.
And, of course, some unforgettable pics of the Fab Four - outside and inside Abbey Road Studios and in Brian Epstein’s house for the launch of Sgt Pepper.
In order to avoid being recognised in public, Linda would often shoot pics through car windows, capturing interesting perspectives of Merseyside with her trademark flair and spontaneity.
On the pier. Wirral, 1968 (c) Paul McCartney/ Photographer Linda McCartney
One windswept imagery of the family spending time together in Hoylake is outstanding.
Sandra Penketh, executive director for galleries and collections care at National Museums, Liverpool, is delighted that this inspirational exhibition is finally open to the public. She hopes it will bring visitors a lot of joy
She said: "From famous faces to intimate family portraits Linda’s wonderful work is full of love, insight and humour - qualities for all of us to embrace right now.
"The series of photos taken in Liverpool and Wirral are a highlight for us and we know our local visitors will enjoy seeing the young McCartney family among the familiar streets."
In the words of Linda McCartney back in 1976, you can see why she excelled at being a natural talent: "If you see something that moves you and then snap it, you keep a moment.
"What I really prefer doing - what really gets my best pictures - is to spend all day with people and make a nice day of it, then the pictures are sure to come out alright."
Globe verdict: A Timeless Legacy
Five stars
Until November 1: Open Wed to Sun, 10am to 5pm.
Tickets online at Liverpoolmuseums.org,uk/lindamccartney
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