Toronto photographer Andrew MacNaughtan died yesterday in Los Angeles of a heart attack while on a shoot with Canadian rock band, Rush.
A statement on Rush’s Facebook page said “We’re deeply shocked and heartbroken to learn of the sudden passing of our close friend and longtime photographer, Andrew MacNaughtan. He was a sweet person and a very talented artist. Words cannot describe how much he will be missed.”
Andrew has documented Rush for many years, but is famous for his portraits, album covers and music videos for the Who’s Who of the Canadian music business. He was no stranger he in Newfoundland either as he is responsible for much of the photography and video for Great Big Sea. Alan Doyle said, “A great and constant friend to GBS and to me. Much Love to his Family and Friends.”
The photographer’s most recent work was a book called ‘Grace: Africa in Photographs’, with proceeds going to Art Gives Hope, a charity he founded in 2006.
MacNaughtan, a four-time JUNO Award winner (for Rush, Our Lady Peace, Tom Cochrane and Jann Arden) has worked with some of Canada’s most notable media, entertainment and music personalities. He travelled to Tanzania and Kenya in November 2010 with the purpose of capturing the spirit and beauty of the landscapes, wildlife and people to raise funds for the prevention, care and advocacy of children in HIV/AIDS affected regions.
The idea to use these photographs in a book was taken a step further when MacNaughtan enlisted the help of friends in the recording industry to lend poetic voice to the images. More than 30 artists including Celine Dion, Michael Bublé, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, Bryan Adams, Annie Lennox, Daniel Lanois, Hedley, Bruce Cockburn, Fefe Dobson, Ed Robertson, Jann Arden, Serena Ryder, Lights, Nikki Yanofsky and Tom Cochrane to name a few, graciously provided commentary to photos that inspired them.
Like most photographers and artists who spend any time in Africa it has a profound impact. If you would like to do something good in Andrew’s memory visit Art Gives Hope and purchase a book or print.
