met 50 years ago. The importance of the encounter is marked by one of John Lennon’s poignant drawings of himself and Yoko with the words “Born 1940. Lived. Met Yoko 1966!” He had just finished recording Revolver and, rather on a lark, decided to visit a quirky art exhibition at London’s Indica Gallery. There he was taken by an installation that called on the viewer to climb a ladder and look through a magnifying glass attached to a chain. In tiny letters, on a large and otherwise blank canvas, was the word yes. John was struck by the positive message. His life would change forever when the artist, Yoko Ono, approached and handed him a card that said breathe.
In November 1980, on the eve of John’s untimely murder, photographer Allan Tannenbaum had unique and total access to John and Yoko, who were emerging from five years of seclusion. Tannenbaum was privileged to be able to capture many intimate moments between the two, portraying their deeply cherished love affair—playful, spiritual, and comfortable. Common Ground is proud to share a small sampling of the resulting images, as well as one of the ensuing vigil and with only Yoko and their son, Sean. This bittersweet pictorial celebrates the beauty and grace of two great artists and their everlasting love.
All photos courtesy of Insight Editions from John and Yoko: A New York Love Story. © 2007 Allan Tannenbaum. All Rights Reserved.
