“Les Paul Thru the Lens”, an exclusive traveling gallery showcasing the life and career of Les Paul—musician, inventor, and icon—will open at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio, from July 15 to September 15, 2024. Visitors will experience a unique collection of rare photographs that chronicle the life of Les Paul. For the first time, the exhibit will also feature three original portraits by expressionist artist Leroy Neiman, never before displayed in a museum.

A Glimpse into Les Paul’s Life

The exhibit comprises 24 gallery-framed black-and-white photographs, spanning Les Paul’s life from childhood to his later career. It includes rare family photos, behind-the-scenes moments, and images of Les with his famous friends. Guests can follow along with web-initiated storylines detailing Les’ inventions, his Hollywood garage studio, and his appearances with Mary Ford. The exhibit offers fans a chance to see Les Paul in a way they never have before.

Photos Courtesy of Les Paul Foundation

Exhibition Details

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, located at 1100 East 9th Street, Cleveland, Ohio, 44114, will host the exhibit in its Roots Gallery. July and August hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Thursdays to Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The exhibit is included with regular museum admission.

Celebrating Les Paul’s Legacy

“1988 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee Les Paul’s creativity and innovation cannot be overstated and are foundational to rock and roll as we know it today,” said Rock & Roll Hall of Fame President and CEO, Greg Harris. “This carefully curated collection of photographs documents his incredible journey as a pioneer, mentor, and friend to other artists. We are grateful to the Les Paul Foundation for bringing this exhibit to Cleveland for fans to enjoy, and we are thrilled it will join our other featured exhibits celebrating the contributions of various artists.”

Michael Braunstein, Executive Director of the Les Paul Foundation, added, “Les was an icon whose inventions paved the way for musicians worldwide. His curiosity gave us the most important inventions in the music industry, which are still used today. We are thrilled to have this opportunity where guests of the Rock Hall will be able to experience Les’ life from early childhood to his career at all stages when they visit the exhibit. The rare photographs depict many important people and moments in Les’ life. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will also be the first venue to exhibit three extraordinary original art pieces created by expressionist artist Leroy Neiman. Les would be so happy to be back at the Rock Hall for this special engagement. We hope everyone who passes through the Hall’s doors gets to know and love Les Paul like we do.”

For more information and to purchase tickets for Les Paul Thru the Lens, visit RockHall.com.

About the Les Paul Foundation

The Les Paul Foundation honors and shares the life, spirit, and legacy of Les Paul by supporting music education, engineering, innovation, and medical research. As an IRC 501(c)3 organization, it awards grants to initiatives that uphold Les Paul’s legacy through music and sound programs serving youth. It also supports public exhibits, events, and music releases that celebrate Les Paul’s achievements. For more information, visit les-paul.com.

Follow Les Paul on social media:
Facebook: @OfficialLesPaul |Instagram: @lespaulofficial | Twitter: @lespaulofficial

About the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrates the history and impact of rock music through exhibits, memorabilia, instruments, costumes, and personal items from music’s greatest stars. Founded in 1985, the museum also hosts inductee ceremonies and offers interactive experiences, short films, and educational programs. Visit the Rock Hall in Cleveland or online at rockhall.com, and follow on social media:

Facebook: @rockandrollhalloffame | Instagram: @rockhall | Twitter: @rockhall |

TikTok: @RockHallFame | YouTube: @rockhall

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