Clive Arrowsmith

Clive Arrowsmith (b. 1949) is one of Wales’ most celebrated photographers, acclaimed for his dynamic contributions to fashion photography, portraiture, and advertising. With a career spanning decades, Arrowsmith has photographed iconic cultural figures such as Yves Saint Laurent, David Bowie, Yoko Ono, Damien Hirst, the Dalai Lama, and Sammy Davis Jr. Known for his refined eye, dramatic lighting, and narrative-rich compositions, his work has consistently placed him at the forefront of the fashion and entertainment industries.

Born in North Wales, Arrowsmith studied painting and graphic design at Queensferry Art College and Kingston College of Art. He began his career as a painter and television graphic designer before transitioning into photography. His early work caught the attention of major publications, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, and Esquire, leading to high-profile fashion editorial commissions and the development of his signature cinematic style.

Arrowsmith’s love of music informed his prolific career as a music photographer, creating album covers and promotional portraits for legends such as Sir Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Wings, Jeff Beck, Art Garfunkel, and Def Leppard. He is the only photographer to have shot the prestigious Pirelli Calendar in two consecutive years—a rare distinction in the industry.

His commercial portfolio includes major campaigns for De Beers, Revlon, Lexus, G.H.D., Caroline Castigliano, and Hasselblad, as well as award-winning television commercials, including a Silver Lion at the Cannes Film Festival for Hamlet Cigars. He has also directed music videos for artists including Def Leppard, Jamiroquai, and Jools Holland.

A passionate humanitarian, Arrowsmith has participated in the Free Tibet campaign, working in Taiwan with the band Chthonic and photographing the Dalai Lama on several occasions. His images often reflect a deep sensitivity to both beauty and the human condition.

In 2021, he released Arrowsmith: Fashion, Beauty and Portraits (ACC Publishing), a sweeping retrospective described as “nothing short of breathtaking.” His work is held in major public collections, including Fotografiska in Stockholm, the National Portrait Gallery in London, and the Museum of Bath Architecture. Clive Arrowsmith continues to influence new generations of photographers with his passion, storytelling, and enduring vision.