Charles Gatewood (1942-2016), Legendary Underground Photographer, Author and Artist

Charles Gatewood, the legendary, award-winning underground photographer, author, artist, educator and “anthropologist of American counter-culture”, passed away on April 28, 2016 after sustaining severe injuries from a fall off his third-story balcony in San Francisco. He was 73 years old.

Many of Gatewood’s friends took to social media to express their condolences and memories.

Tribute to Charles Gatewood. I never met him. I have a single photo from him but I've always appreciated what he's helped this industry do and the moments he has captured so we as Piercers can be reminded where our industry comes from. I am young I did not get to experience almost any of the start of our industry so thank you. #bodypiercing #photography

A photo posted by Chance X Sledge (@piercingsxchance) on Apr 28, 2016 at 10:54pm PDT

In addition to his active photography, Gatewood maintained an expansive archive that he discusses in a series of videos on YouTube.

Among those photos in his archive is a picture of Jimmy Page and William S. Burroughs and at least one of Rod Stewart.

Last, but not least, he was a dear friend of Laughing Squid. In this photo by Scott Beale he is with his good friend and collaborator V. Vale of RE/Search Publications.

Rest in Peace Charles. We hope you have your camera with you wherever you are.