This is one of the most eagerly awaited exhibitions of 2026. For the first time in France, a selection of photographs by Paul McCartney will be presented to the public. Entitled Paul McCartney, photographe 1963-64 : Eyes of the Storm, the exhibition offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the Beatles‘ meteoric rise. Away from the stage and the spotlight, it reveals a more intimate side of the British icon. A unique cultural event to be discovered from July 4 to November 1, 2026 at the Musée Granet, Aix-en-Provence.
A retrospective on the rise of the Beatles
The exhibition features over 250 photographs taken between 1963 and 1964. At the time, Paul McCartney was traveling the world with his 35mm camera. He immortalized a pivotal period for the band, when success crossed Liverpool’s borders to conquer the UK and then the whole world. These images tell the story of the beginnings of a global phenomenon, still fragile but already vertiginous. Long in the shadows, they were rediscovered in 2020 in the musician’s personal archives.
A behind-the-scenes look
At a time when photography allowed neither retouching nor unlimited shots, these snapshots stand out for their spontaneity. But above all, they reveal what goes on behind the scenes: impersonal hotels, car and train journeys, interminable waits, rehearsals and constant media pressure. Paul McCartney captures moments in time, immortalized in images that are sometimes blurred, sometimes highly composed. They all convey the energy of the 60s and the wonder of four young musicians as the world opened up to them.
From Liverpool to America: an exhibition in eight stages
The exhibition unfolds chronologically, in eight distinct sequences. From “Behind the Lens” to the last days of summer 1964, the exhibition follows the Beatles’ spectacular rise to fame. Visitors follow the Beatles from city to city. Liverpool and London open the story at the end of 1963. Paris follows, before the big leap to the United States in February 1964. The high point of this journey was their appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show. A historic moment, watched by nearly 73 million viewers. For these young British musicians, America was both a myth and a discovery.
Paul McCartney, photographer
Paul McCartney may be world-famous as a musician, but his photographic work is more discreet. Yet this passion has been with him since childhood. He discovered photography with his brother, thanks to the family’s first camera, a Kodak Brownie. At the time, he wasn’t looking to produce an artistic work. He was simply documenting his daily life. Today, these images take on a new dimension, both historical and deeply human.
Practical info
📍 Adesse: Place Saint-Jean de Malte, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
🗓️ Dates: July 4 to November 1, 2026
💰 Prices: full price €14, reduced price €12, free for under-18s, students under-26s, long-term jobseekers (6 months or more), RSA recipients (on presentation of proof less than 3 months old).
🎟️ Reservations open: spring 2026.