Ghosts of Bohemia: A Rock ‘n’ Roll shooting conjures The Chelsea Hotel’s spirit

The Chelsea Hotel. Just the name conjures images of smoke-filled rooms, clashing egos, and artistic breakthroughs fueled by passion, madness, and a healthy dose of cheap gin. It’s a place steeped in legend, a haven for writers, artists, and musicians who shaped the counterculture of the 20th century. And for a recent shooting, that legendary spirit became the guiding force, as a team of creatives aimed to capture the raw, unapologetic energy of rock ‘n’ roll within its storied walls.

The concept was simple: channel the bohemian energy that once pulsed through the Chelsea’s corridors. The inspiration was a heady mix of Patti Smith’s raw vulnerability, Janis Joplin’s fearless performance, and the chaotic beauty of the Rolling Stones circa ‘Exile on Main St.’ The location, thankfully, didn’t require much alteration. While a luxury hotel now, remnants of its bohemian past linger in the architecture, the echoes in the hallways, and the lingering scent of stories untold.

“We wanted to create something that felt authentic, something that captured the essence of a bygone era.  “It wasn’t about recreating a specific image, but more about capturing a feeling – the freedom, the rebellion, the artistic hunger.”

The model, embodied this vision perfectly. Clad in a mix of vintage finds – flowing, diaphanous dresses – they moved through the space with a captivating blend of vulnerability and defiance. The makeup was deliberately undone, smudged eyeliner and tousled hair adding to the impression of a life lived on the edge.

“It was almost like the hotel itself was a character in the shoot”.  “You could feel the weight of history in every corner. Knowing that so many incredible artists had walked these same floors, that they had created their masterpieces within these walls, it was incredibly inspiring.”

The results are more than just beautiful photographs; they’re a visual poem to the Chelsea Hotel and the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. They’re a reminder of a time when art was raw, unpolished, and deeply personal. They’re a testament to the power of place and the enduring legacy of those who dared to live outside the lines.

We wanted to remind people that even in a world of carefully curated images and polished performances, there’s still room for the messy, the authentic, and the beautifully broken.”

It’s a reminder that the ghosts of Bohemia are still alive and well, whispering their stories to anyone who’s willing to listen.

— Words by Anastasia Yaroslavtseva