Touring photographs of John Lennon's 'Lost Weekend' are coming to Whitefish Bay

Megan Woolard
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
John Lennon and his son Julian

“The Lost Weekend: The Photography of May Pang”, a traveling exhibition, will make a stop in Whitefish Bay. The exhibition showcases candid photos of John Lennon and his friends during his “Lost Weekend.”

When is the exhibition?

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, July 21, and Saturday, July 22; and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 23.

Where is the exhibition?

The exhibition will be at Gallery 505 (517 E. Silver Spring Drive, Whitefish Bay). May Pang will also be on site.

How much does it cost?

The exhibition is free and all works will be available to purchase.

May Pang poses with photographs she took of John Lennon and friends.

Who is May Pang?

May Pang began as Lennon and his second wife Yoko Ono’s personal assistant. Then when Ono and Lennon were having marital problems, Ono set up Pang (who was 22 at the time) and Lennon. The two had a romantic relationship that lasted around 18 months. Pang is often credited with helping Lennon repair personal relationships, such as the one with his eldest son Julian. Pang has also written books about their relationship, including her memoir “Loving John.”

What is the 'Lost Weekend?'

In the context of John Lennon, the “lost weekend” refers to an 18-month period between the summer of 1973 and early 1975. Lennon coined the term himself while doing press for his and Ono's album "Double Fantasy." During this time Lennon moved to L.A. with Pang for a time and was separated from Ono. This time is often overshadowed by Lennon’s drinking, partying and one instance where he was kicked out of a nightclub. However, throughout this time Lennon also was very active creatively. He finished three albums, produced others and worked with stars like David Bowie, Mick Jagger and Elton John.

What is in the exhibition?

The exhibition includes photos of Lennon, as well as other images of Lennon with friends and his son. It includes one of the last photographs of Lennon with Paul McCartney and a photo of Lennon signing the contract to dissolve the Beatles.

Megan Woolard can be reached at MWoolard@gannett.com or on Twitter @MeganWoolard4.