Iconic Australian rock musicians from the 60s, 70s and 80s through to the present day have inspired the latest exhibition at Manly Art Gallery & Museum.

“Instrumental” features vivid photographic studies of the instruments of some of Australia’s most influential and celebrated rock musicians, as well as stories that illuminate the connection between the musicians and their ‘tools of the trade’.

Exhibition curator Ross Heathcote said the exhibition is the work of acclaimed American-born and Scotland Island-based still life photographer Chuck Bradley.

“Outside his photography, Chuck is also a bit of a muso himself, playing drums in a blues band Sly Dogs.

“This promises to be a real treat for any music fans, plus people who just love compelling photography.

“Working with Chuck we’ve been able to get access to the very musical instruments used by the likes of Iva Davies, Jimmy Barnes, Col Joye, Archie Roach, Tim Farris and Kirk Pengilly from INXS and Amanda Brown from the 80s sensation the Go-Betweens.”

Chuck said people will have little trouble recognising the instruments.

“People know these iconic instruments and associate them with memorable sounds and events but never get to see them up close.. These are like revealing portraits of the instruments themselves.”

The exhibition runs from 26 May to 9 July and there’s a special treat with photographer Chuck Bradley in conversation with Ross Heathcote on Sunday 4 June at 2pm.

Entry to the exhibition is free. The gallery is near Manly ferry wharf and there is free two hour parking at nearby Whistler Street car park. The gallery is closed on Mondays.