EXHIBITION BY BOB GRUEN OPENS AT THE MALMAISON HOTEL ON PRINCES DOCK

John in charity concert in New York. August 1972

Last week saw the official opening of the Rock Seen Exhibition by legendary rock and roll photography Bob Gruen at the Malmaison hotel on Princes Dock.

It's of particular significance to the city of Liverpool as the exhibition featured many rare and unseen photos depicting John Lennon's time in New York and the first time the collection has been exhibited outside of London and New York.

Guest of honour at the launch event was Julia Baird, John Lennons sister, a special presentation of Bob Gruen's John Lennon photo biography and a framed picture was made to her by the exhibition curator Stephen Colegrave. Funds raised from the exhibition will be donated to the Imagine Appeal, Alder Hey.

L-R: Sharon Simons; Sales Manager Malmaison, James Rush; General Manager, Julia Baird; Johns sister, Stephen Colegrave; Boston Books Ltd

Julia said: "The Malmaison Hotel on Liverpool's Princes Dock was transformed into an Art Gallery, courtesy of the wonderful photographs taken by Bob Gruen during John Lennon's New York years. Some you will recognise, many you won't.

"I have the book and it is a fabulous archive of that time. Do go along to see for yourselves. Whilst there, you can donate to the children's ward at Alder Hey Hospital..a hugely worthy cause, at this, or any other time of the year. Happy Christmas to you all."

Whilst Bob Gruen was not at the exhibition news travels with John Lennons official twitter page tweeting about the event and Yoko Ono supported the launch by retweeting the event on her official Twitter account.

James Rush, General Manager said: "We were honoured by the support received last night by our friends and partners, and in particular Julia Baird.

"The evening was a huge success, and the Mal Liverpool team look forward to welcoming all to see the exclusive Bob Gruen pictures, which is a must see, with great presents for the 70's rock and roll fan in your house."