Any rock or soul music aficionado knows
that Macon is ground zero, home to legends
like Otis Redding, James Brown, Jason Aldean,
Little Richard, Bill Berry, Mike Mills (R.E.M.), and
the Allman Brothers. Imagine a photography
gallery devoted to musicians right here in
Macon—welcome to Gallery West. This unique space exclusively showcases the work of Kirk
West, a professional photographer who launched his career as a contract photographer for the
Chicago Tribune and the Chicago Sun-Times, working for both publications throughout the
1970s and 1980s.
In the 1970s, Kirk befriended members of the Allman Brothers and documented their Reunion
Tour in the 1980s. He was invited to serve as the band’s tour manager, a role he held for over
20 years, capturing iconic moments along the way. Many of these images are part of the
collection displayed at Gallery West.
Kirk's impressive portfolio also includes photographs of the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen,
Tom Petty, Bob Marley, the Grateful Dead, Johnny Cash, B.B. King, Albert King, Johnny Winter,
and many more. His wife, Kirsten, owns Gallery West and loves sharing the stories behind each
photograph. Located in the renovated storefront at 447 Third Street, this gallery is a must-see
for any music lover visiting the heart of Georgia.
