Twelve years. A hundred guitars. Endless stories.
Australian photographer Kane Hibberd unveils ‘Scale’—a raw, up-close look at the instruments behind modern music’s biggest moments, debuting in London this summer— one for our international readers.
Each musical instrument carries its own story, its own identity. They hold the ambitions and scars of the artists who play them, a testament to their efforts and evolution. These guitars aren’t just tools; they are inseparable companions to music legends. Their beauty lies in the passage of time — worn, aged, and full of character.
And that’s exactly why Scale existed— to honour that beauty, to showcase the rough, time-stained features of these instruments, and to tell the stories they carry with their artists. The scars, the dents, the faded parts — they make each guitar unique, because behind those, there is its own tale.
Read all the latest product & music industry news here.
This June, talented Australian photographer Kane Hibberd will bring this unique exhibition to the London art scene at Unlocked Shoreditch from June 12 to August 31, 2025. But this isn’t just another exhibition — it’s the result of over 12 years of dedication and travel. Kane set out to ask iconic guitarists to share the deepest secrets of their favourite instruments, and hundreds of artists — from global icons to emerging stars — opened up, letting Kane photograph their beloved guitars in breathtaking detail.
The exhibition will feature 100 of the world’s most iconic guitars and 100 unforgettable stories. From Paul McCartney’s legendary Höfner bass to Dave Grohl’s Gibson Trini Lopez, Keith Urban’s prized Fender Broadcaster to Joan Jett’s gig-worn Melody Maker, Kevin Parker’s psychedelic Rickenbacker to Ed Sheeran’s signature acoustic repeater — the Scale photography exhibition promises a stunning, up-close view of these iconic instruments like never before.
And yet, there’s no sound. No hands. No stage. Just the guitars, standing alone. By stripping away the note, Hibberd shifts the spotlight entirely to the instrument, rendering it almost like tools pulled from a toolbox or Irving Penn’s famous still life photographylifes of discarded objects; the guitars stand alone, quiet but full of history.
Each photograph is paired with the story behind the instrument. You’ll hear where it came from, why it matters, and what makes it special — almost as if the guitars could speak for themselves. Whether you’re a guitarist, a music fan, or a lover of fine photography, this exhibition offers a rare, intimate glimpse into the instruments that have shaped modern music.
Scale has been over a decade in the making, and Hibberd’s meticulous attention to detail shows the passion he’s poured into this project. Scale London is just one part of this journey. Once completed, the entire project will be compiled into a high-quality book, set for release in late 2026.
Scale runs 12 June – 31 August at Unlocked Shoreditch, 118 Curtain Rd LONDON EC2A 3AY. For further info, ticketing and more, keep reading at Scale.
