Nikki Sixx self portrait

Nikki Sixx self portrait

STREET STYLE

Nikki Sixx’s “Conversation with Angels” showcased at Leica Gallery

Life is about change. For me, photography is about capturing that moment before it changes. Afterwards, we can use it as a bookmark, or a timestamp, to remember the better and the worst times that have happened. We can also use it to create new perspective and spark a change in people. I feel motivated to tell stories through photography and sometimes if I’m lucky, discover things about myself. I’ve always said as I head out the door, camera in hand, that I am embarking on an unattainable journey, but if I’m lucky, I might stumble across and have a conversation with an angel.—Nikki Sixx

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Contributing writer Estevan Ramos with Nikki Sixx

Nikki Sixx, photographer, author, bassist and founding member of the rock group Motley Crüe, and Leica Gallery teamed up to debut Sixx’s first-ever photo exhibit, titled “Conversations with Angels,” on Oct. 4. A standing-room-only crowd turned out for the debut of Sixx’s photographic works.

Sixx’s love of street photography stems from his past experiences as a runaway and drug abuser. He’s been a storyteller all his life—as a lyricist, author and especially as a photographer. Now sober 17 years, he uses his camera as a tool to connect to his subjects and to convey stories of hope from what he photographs. He starts off by having conversations with his subjects before even introducing his camera. Once he hears their stories, he then photographs them to bring their stories to life. He never leaves home without his camera because he never knows when something is going to inspire him.

Leica Camera will release the Leica Q Nikki Sixx edition camera, a limited-edition, full-frame compact camera. The camera will have a snakeskin finish on leatherette with Nikki Sixx’s signature laser-engraved on it. It will also come with an autographed copy of Sixx’s memoir, “The Heroin Diaries: A year in the life of a shattered rock star.” Proceeds from all sales of Sixx’s gallery exhibit will benefit Covenant House California.

The Leica Gallery is located at 8783 Beverly Blvd., in West Hollywood. The exhibition runs until Nov. 6.

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Nikki Sixx’s “Conversations With Angels” exhibition

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Left, Nikki Sixx with wife Courtney. Right, Leica Gallery manager Paris Chong

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Left, producer/photographer Connie Conway, contributing writer Estevan Ramos and photographer Timothy White. Right, photographer/director Mathieu Bitton

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A selection of Sixx’s color photos of street life

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A selection of Sixx’s black and white photos of street life

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The evening’s attendees did not disappoint at all with their fashion choices. It ranged from evening glamour to rock ‘n’ roll chic and everything in between.

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Some of guys chose to be creative with their looks.

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Ladies in their rock ‘n’ roll chic classics

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Some more rock-inspired glam for ladies and gents

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Unique and conversational was the direction for lots of the guys.

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Black, flirty, pin-up, Barbie-inspired shoes were the popular choice among the ladies.

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Finishing details like “Road Warrior” boots and a Frida Kalho–inspired corset to hand-embroidered artwork and guitar pick embellishment

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It was like Grand Central Station at Leica Gallery throughout the night.