A popular contemporary artist will be making an appearance in Manchester this weekend to showcase his latest silk screen collection.
Simon Claridge will be at Castle Fine Art on King Street on Saturday (9th September) between 1pm and 3pm.
Visitors will be able to view his Diamond Dust body of work and talk to the artist himself about his inspirations, techniques and past collections. The collection will then be on display at the gallery for a further week.
Inspired by original exposures from the archives of iconic photographer, Terry O’Neill, Diamond Dust sees Claridge interpret iconic figures on silkscreen, rendered with his now signature diamond dust finish.
In a career spanning more than 50 years, Terry O’Neill pioneered the iconic celebrity portrait, becoming famous for his instinct and ability to photograph his subjects in candid, and sometimes unorthodox, poses and locations.
From rock stars and presidents to royals and movie stars, the legendary photographer has captured the likes of Frank Sinatra, David Bowie, Sir Elton John and Chuck Berry, and his work comprises a vital chronicle of rock and roll history.
Claridge, who is internationally recognised and has been commissioned by Alfa Romeo and Henry Holland, is known for his ability to blur reality and fantasy and has long admired O’Neill’s work.
He said: “Terry O’Neill is a true icon and, whilst it’s hard to improve on the originals, it is my hope that the diamond dust application has birthed a new generation of his work.
“The aim was to celebrate his photography, not dominate it. I wanted to add my own style whilst still keeping the soul of the pieces true to the original exposures, and leave the viewer with some tangible emotional feelings.”
Terry O’Neill said: “Simon’s unique interpretation of my work through the Diamond Dust collection is fabulous.
“The silkscreening and diamond dust process is fascinating and highly intricate, and it is impossible not to be impressed by the level of detail that has gone into each piece.”
Nicholas Beese, gallery director at Castle Fine Art, King Street – Washington Green Fine Art’s nationwide network of high street galleries, said: “This collection has been long awaited, as it teams the artistic talents of Claridge and O’Neill by transcending time. It will be very exciting to have Simon himself visit our gallery to discuss his work and the inspiration behind it.”
Prices for silkscreens from the Diamond Dust collection start at £995.
