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.
Photography & Works
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Clive Arrowsmith
Ann Schaufuss in Renaissance Hat, London, VOGUE U.K. Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Ann Schaufuss Monkey Coat Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Ann Schaufuss Veil Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Bowie Twisting (back in color), London Studio Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Bowie Twisting (back), London Studio Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Bowie Twisting (sideways), London Studio Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Charlotte Rampling, VOGUE, London Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
D’arcy Bussel, Ballerina Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
David Bowie from the Shadows, London Studio Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Donna Mitchell, Paris Collections Vogue Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Elton John & Phil Collins Laughter, The Prince’s Trust Rock Concert Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Fortnum & Mason (Tea Room Orange Hat) Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Fortnum & Mason Ice Cream Parlour Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Fortnum & Mason Ice Cream Parlour (Colour) Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Fortnum & Mason Perfumery (Black Dress) Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Geishe and Sphere, VOGUE, London Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Helena Bonham Carter Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Helena Bonham Carter Studio, London Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
HH Dalai Lama (Eyes Closed), NY Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Hiram Keller Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Hunter Thompson, London Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Kate Bush, Blue Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
Kate Bush, Ivy Add to cart -
Clive Arrowsmith
London Store Ad Add to cart
News & Articles

The Resurgence of Kate Bush, a Look Back at Her Photo Sessions

Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary Art Fair 2022

Fashion with an Edge

Movies Made America

Art Miami 2021

Clive Arrowsmith’s Fortnum & Mason

Photo London Digital 2020

Clive Arrowsmith’s Penelope Tree
