Musician Melissa Auf der Maur Announces New Photography Collection
Former Hole and Smashing Pumpkins bassist Melissa Auf der Maur is set to release a new book, titled My ’90s Rock Photographs. The comprehensive collection is slated for publication on September 8, published by DelMonico Books in partnership with the Art Gallery Of Ontario.
A Glimpse into the Alternative Scene
This 240-page hardback volume features over 200 photographs, described as a “photographic love letter to the last analogue decade.” The book promises an intimate exploration of the ’90s alternative rock landscape and its independent spirit. Readers can anticipate candid images of notable figures such as Frances Bean Cobain, alongside behind-the-scenes moments with bands like Pavement, Sonic Youth, and Beck. A memorable limousine ride with Drew Barrymore is also included, as is a look at the making of Hole’s ‘Celebrity Skin’ video.
Curated Memories and Contributions
Auf der Maur’s work extends beyond personal documentation. She was previously commissioned by Spin Magazine to capture pivotal music events, including Lollapalooza in 1995 and the Tibetan Freedom Concert in 1996. An official description highlights the book as “a moving self-portrait of a young artist living through the ’90s alternative music scene, and a time capsule for Generation X.” The photographs are complemented by Auf der Maur’s own written reflections, as well as contributions from prominent figures like Michael Stipe of R.E.M. and music critic Ann Powers.
Accompanying Exhibition Planned
An exhibition bearing the same title, My ’90s Rock Photographs, is scheduled to open at the Art Gallery Of Ontario in Toronto, Canada, this autumn, offering a visual complement to the published work.
Reflections on Music and Activism
This new book follows Auf der Maur’s recent memoir, Even The Good Girls Will Cry, which was characterized as a blend of autobiography, travelogue, and scrapbook. In a recent interview, Auf der Maur discussed the possibility of a Hole reunion, stating, “If there’s one thing I know about Courtney and Hole, it’s that it’s as mysterious as romantic love. You can’t force, organise, or plan these things.” She indicated that her contemplation of a return to Hole, in any capacity, is influenced by current societal dialogues, particularly in the US. “Some of my interest in returning to Hole in any shape or form is because the world needs that kind of power, rebellion, and intelligence,” she remarked.
Recalling Lollapalooza 1995, she described it as “the height of so much great individuality and bands,” noting a shift towards corporate influence in subsequent years. While acknowledging the festival’s positive aspects, she also mentioned negative experiences, such as projectiles being thrown at the stage.
Previous speculation about a Hole reunion was fueled by a cryptic online video. However, Courtney Love later clarified that no such reunion was imminent.
