Rare Stones by Brian Aris

An exhibition of unseen photos of The Rolling Stones from 40 years ago is going on display.

Rare Stones is a collection of candid snaps of the band in the early eighties taken by Folkestone-based photographer Brian Aris.

The images, many of which have never been displayed before, are on show in St Leonards, East Sussex, from Saturday.

Lucy Bell, who is hosting the exhibition, said the photos "showcase the band’s raw energy, unparalleled charisma, and enduring influence".

Brian Aris took this image of The Rolling Stones in Boston in 1981

Brian Aris was invited to fly to Boston to photograph The Rolling Stones in 1981, where they were in secret rehearsals for their upcoming tour.

He said: "I spent days photographing different band members before walking into a candlelit barn with the band around midnight for a rehearsal. I was sitting on the floor of the barn, working with very fast film as there was such little light, thinking how privileged I was to be there with an opportunity to capture The Stones."

Mr Aris added: "No fancy costumes or make up, no expensive lighting rig — just an amazing group of musicians really enjoying themselves making great music."

Mick Jagger with David Bowie at Royal Albert Hall in 1983

Other sessions followed — a one-to-one with Mick Jagger in Holborn Studios in London, a trip to Paris where the band was filming the video for Undercover of the Night, and later Jagger and David Bowie in concert together.

Many of these images remain unseen.

Mr Aris added: "With the band going out on tour this year it felt like this was a perfect opportunity to raid my archives."

Mick Jagger photographed at Holborn Studios, London, in 1983

Drummer Charlie Watts on stage in Boston in 1981

Keith Richards filming the video for Undercover of the Night in 1983