With the original 'Bullitt' still being one of our most requested JJ Adams works to date - fans will be delighted to see another rendition of the King Of Cool in the role that many consider the turning point in his career. With it also recently being announced that Steven Spielberg is directing a new original story centered on Frank Bullitt, the iconic character played by Steve McQueen in the 1968 thriller - this couldn't really come at a better time. In the work we see McQueen aiming a revolver with one hand, while holding one in the other in the stark surroundings of the Californian desert. Of course, there are references to both of the previous McQueen inspired works JJ has created over the years with parts featuring on all three like the 'Cool King' knuckle tattoos and the recognisable inking of McQueen on a motorbike in The Great Escape. In the 2015 'Bullitt' work, Frank's Ford Mustang appears as a photograph on the wall and in the later 'Cooler King' it features as a tattoo on McQueens forearm. In this new work, the car appears in its true form - parked up in the background of the piece, awaiting the actors return. All three depictions present the watch made famous by the film - the Benrus 3061, now named the Benrus Bullitt, but in the newest edition JJ has also highlighted another couple of the actors staple pieces of jewelry. Around his neck hangs a 9ct gold St Christopher medallion on a thin chain which fans often spotted Steve McQueen wearing. The pendant was a gift from his first wife Neile Adams, as he had become quite religious towards the end of his life. Another signature piece the actor was never seen without was a signet ring also appearing on his fourth left finger in this work. This was a personal item of McQueens, but it did make it's way into a few of his most famous films including The Great Escape and Wanted: Dead Or Alive.
Secure Bullitt From A Gun Colour Here & Black and White Here
Where to even begin with this one?! This tribute to the magical Harry Potter franchise is so jam packed with hidden elements and references that you could almost believe Harry Potter himself might burst right out of the image on his Nimbus 2000 and swoop into your front room. In terms of detail, this is by far one of the most complex works we have witnessed from JJ to date and there are definitely many parts to this piece you will overlook on first, second or even third glance. Making the task of uncovering them all for you harder than Snape's Potion Riddle... but Iv'e given it my very best shot, so here goes....
This isn't your 'stereotypical' scene of Hogwarts from the movies (well of course not... when does JJ Adams ever do anything by the book?!) Instead, this work paints the picture of the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry consumed by darkness. The ‘Dark Mark’ in the corner of the sky alerts us to the fact that evil is lurking. Dementors hover above in the thundery night skies as Aragogs, dragons, Mountain trolls and werewolves can all be spotted stalking the outer walls of the castle. From an entryway to the school on the right, the large Basilisk rears it’s ugly head, warding off any good who tries to get close… But it’s not all evil beasts taking over this image, oh no, there are some more admirable creatures hiding out here too. Fawkes, Dumbeldore’s pet Phoenix can be found flying off into the sky, Harry Potter’s noble Patronus can be discovered at the center of the work as a magical Hippogriff takes flight close by.
Around the turrets of Hogwarts, Harry Potter can be spotted whizzing around on his Nimbus 2000 leaving the words ‘Catch Me If You Can’ in his trail and of course, it wouldn’t be a true portrayal of this magical story without the addition of the flying Ford Anglia 105E.
Now, it will be no surprise that this magnificent building has been given the special JJ Adams Rule Britannia treatment and is now covered from top to bottom in graffiti… but not just any old graffiti. As we've said before, there is always a reason for every aspect of JJ’s work and that becomes obvious when you notice phrases like ‘Bloody Hell’ ‘Voldemort’ and ‘Umbridge Sucks’ all sprayed onto the structure. Beloved lines from the film like “I solemnly swear that I am up to no good” and “Mischief Managed” appear on the roofs and even portraits of Ron Weasley and a tribute to the late Snape actor Alan Rickman can be found nearby.
Not everything in this piece is so easy to find however… it will take a bit more effort to spot aspects like JJ’s tiny little signature window with the curtain, or the Deathly Hallows symbol located just above it. And here’s a little game for you… when you finally get the opportunity to see this work in person why don’t you play ‘Where’s Mary’ because as bizarre as that sounds yes, Mary Poppins silhouette is hiding somewhere in this work. This refers to the suggestion that the world of Mary Poppins and Harry Potter crossed over as in 1910, Mary was a star employee for the Ministry of Magic - and therefore a member of the wizarding world.
There’s so much more we could talk about with this creation but as I am on a word count here, I want to leave you with one last little anecdote that really grabbed my attention in this work. The bridge at the forefront may appear as an exact replica of the connecting element of the Hogwarts school in the film, but on closer inspection you will discover the words ‘Give Peas A Chance’ sprayed onto it. Some of you may be asking..where does this appear in Harry Potter?! Well the answer is.. it doesn’t. It did however, once exist on the Chalfront Viaduct, located on London's M25 (The same road you'd use to travel to Harry Potter Studios). ‘Peas’ was reportedly the name of a London graffiti artist who daubed his name on the bridge, only for someone later to add in the words “give” and “a chance”. For many years this notable slogan remained on the bridge until 2018, when the word Peas was painted over by another London graffiti artist ‘Helch’ much to the annoyance of it’s fans. This spurred the unknown artist to return some days later and alter the phrase to “Give Helch A Break”. The 'Helch' tag can be found around various landmarks and viaducts in London... and has even made it’s way into this very JJ Adams creation.
Secure After All This Time here
“Wars are always madness: All is lost in war and all is to be gained in peace” – the words are derived from a speech given by Pope Francis in 2013 to appeal for peace in Syria.
On the very tip of the bomb you will notice the words ‘Front Towards Enemy’ the same words written on the front of a Claymore mine – used by the United States armed force. It also is a phrase meaning to keep your front toward your enemy, whether that enemy is your next workout or your next cancer treatment.
The final aspect I wanted to consider, was the writing on the very top of the tail of the Fat Man…. which states ‘We need a change’ and this particular sentence and in fact the entire image as a whole, is a powerful reminder to us all that something different must happen in order to make the world a better place.
This work is definitely not all doom and gloom however. The knuckle tattoos on Britannia’s hand read as ‘Hold Fast’ a term that originates from the Navy meaning “To bear down and fight through the storm”.. and it seems that way may very well be about to come out the other side. Behind the silhouettes of Britannia’s fierce lions and breaking through the rumbling clouds, is the sun that is casting a light down on Britannia - representing a glimmer of hope for her and hope for the country.
We've had Tartan Soup, Irn Bru Soup and Rainbow Soup... now we introduce you to two new 'flavours'... made with all the best ingredients the history of subculture has to offer - Mod Soup and Punk Soup. These two new hand pulled screen prints are of course, inspired by Andy Warhol's famous Campbell's Soup can works produced between November 1961 and March or April 1962, with the addition of a bit of JJ Adams spice. The Mod soup can has been decorated in royal blue and finished with checkers and a 'mod target'. The flavour appears to be 'Cream of Lambretta' - Lambretta being the Italian brand name of scooters and later the clothing brand loved by Mod's throughout Great Britain and elsewhere. Below this are the words "Talkin 'Bout My Generation" lines from The Who's hit song My Generation. The Who being one of the biggest bands at the forefront of the mod movement. It is also said that The Who could responsible for this subculture adopting their notable blue white and red target symbol. This target was originally created by French Aviation during WWI to stop them from shooting down their own. RAF then adopted a similar method but instead they swapped the red with the blue on their target to make it more representational of the Union Jack. A similar style of this target was reprised in the 60's and after a number of artists etc all used forms of this symbol in their work eventually leading to the band The Who adopting the logo for themselves. This filtered down to fans and then eventually became more widespread within the subculture and bands like The Jam, Small Faces and The Kinks would all go on to sport the now famous circles - and so the mod target was born.
Contrasting this is the fluorescent pink soup can that represents the Punk subculture. The differences in the two pieces, just like with Mod’s and Punk’s themselves, are apparent from the get go. Where the Mod Soup is simple and sophisticated, the Punk Soup is embellished with spray paint markings and symbols of anarchy. The ingredients of this read as ‘Full Of Anarchy’ and messages like ‘No Future’ and ‘No Future For You’ , all lines from the Sex Pistols 1977 anthem ‘God Save The Queen’. The phrase 'All Cops Are Bastards' also appears and this was a political slogan associated with dissidents who are opposed to the police and typically written as a catchphrase in graffiti, tattoos or other imagery in public spaces.
A cottage fit for any mum... even in the middle of nowhere there does of course, still need to be telephone access.
For the mum's who are film fanatics or music lovers, there are plenty of options with JJ Adams.
Dirty Dancing... This has got to be in pretty much every mother's list of all time greatest romantic movies, right? (I know it's definitely in my mum's) 'Come Here Lover Boy' is JJ's cool and edgy take on the classic, so if you think she'd like to wake up to a tattooed Patrick Swayze every day - then this is the one for her. Available in both black and white and colour versions.
Mr Controversial creates all too relatable quotes about life and often features beautiful and confident females in his works of art - making them ideal for mum.
No Amount of Concealer £385-£945
What mother hasn't taken the risk on quickly turning her back to pop on a bit of lippy.. only to turn around 5 minutes later and discover that total chaos has ensued? (I told you, all too relatable)
And last but not least.. Mother's day is a cause for celebration, right? So what about a bottle of bubbly, but not as you know it. If your mum is partial to some of the finer things in life then the amazing 'No Pain Champagne' by Emma Gibbons is the one for her.
No Pain Champagne Multicolour £1,995
Champagne without the hangover.. any ladies dream.
Mother's Day Sunday the 27th Of March 2022. Call us on 0131 285 0695 to discuss gift options (we also gift wrap works collected locally!)
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"I could turn out an abstract painting for you but it wouldn't be coming from the heart. What I paint is what moves me." - Jack Vettriano.
He is known as one of Scotland's most successful living artists, with a career spanning well over three decades and a catalogue of oil paintings which are still so highly regarded today.
One particular work of art that I wanted to hone in on, from Jack Vettriano's plethora of astounding works of art, is the truly remarkable 2008 painting titled 'Blades'
'Blades' got its first debut to the public back in 2010, when it was part of the memorable 'Days of Wine And Roses' exhibition. The exhibition featured a total of 41 oil paintings inspired by Vettriano's visits to Milan and the French Riviera, alongside some of his signature darker interiors and was held at both his hometown of Kirkcaldy at the Museum and Art gallery and at his own Heartbreak Gallery in London. The exhibition was a huge success and 'Blades' was number 23 in the catalogue. After this the work seemed to go back to being part of Jack's private collection and then sold on to a private collector, however there was a limited edition print of the same work released the same year that was quick to sell out. The print also featured in the Retrospective Print Exhibition, held at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, 21st September 2013 - 23rd February 2014.
This particular painting sees a young carefree woman gliding along the beach promenade in a pair of rollerblades, with the crystal blue waters behind her. You can feel the movement in the work, yet the location still appears to be incredibly serene. The image appears to be inspired by the surroundings of the French Riviera, as Jack has owned an apartment overlooking the beautiful Baie des Anges for almost two decades. A quick google search of the area and it really comes as no surprise why this stunning scenery Jack wakes up to everyday has so heavily influenced a number of his paintings over the years.
Vettriano states: “I’m in Nice as often as I can be; I find the climate, the light and the people-watching there such a pleasure and very inspiring. I’d like to think I’m following in the footsteps of other Scottish artists who discovered the French Riviera and I can certainly vouch for the appeal.”
It is even more apparent that the sights have led to the creation of works like this when we consider the sign above the bladers head. The ‘Sport’banner appears to be a section of the signboard for the truly stunning Beau Rivage Public Beach, Nice.
As stated above, one of Jack Vettriano’s simple pleasures during his time in Nice is to people watch – so could this female be a complete stranger, who passed his eye and made such an impact in a fleeting moment... or could she be something more?
Vettriano says: The paintings I’ve created in the South of France have been entirely inspired by the hours spent people-watching and enjoying the new sights, colours and light down there. The people in my paintings are usually friends or lovers as I find it easiest to work with people I know well.
So although these figures may begin as people as complete strangers, by the time Jack puts paintbrush to canvas – they have intertwined with what he knows best, with elements and memories of past love interests seeping into his creative flow and inventing new characters. Some have speculated that this lady skating down the promenade may not be unfamiliar to Jack Vettriano at all, but in fact an ex-lover of his named Maggie Millar. Maggie and Jack met after she interviewed him for the local newspaper she worked for in Fife and after, the two began a romance (or an affair as many would see it as Maggie was still married at the time.) They spent two years together and Maggie even moved her life to France to be with Jack but alas, it was just not meant to be and she soon moved back to Scotland. During their time together however, Maggie Millar became a muse for Vettriano and featured in several of his works - most of these have never been confirmed. The similarities between the two are uncanny, so it would be unwise to rule Maggie being the focus of this work or at the very least, aspects of her and their relationship influencing it.
Jack Vettriano 'A Very Married Woman' featuring Maggie Millar
When I first saw this painting I was immediately reminded of the vintage French travel posters – with their beautiful females surrounded by blue skies and sunning themselves on the yellow beaches of Nice.
It may not come as a surprise to those who are so familiar with the work of Vettriano, as his paintings are so often motivated by art deco features, a romantic and melancholic view of the past and, of course, women.
In today's times, when Jack Vettriano originals are so rarely crop up on the current market - we are delighted to have the opportunity to showcase this special work and give our collectors the rare opportunity to not only see an original painting in the fles, but also the possibility of owning it.
This will be on display in our Edinburgh gallery very soon - but for now if you have any further questions about 'Blades' then please get in touch with us today by calling us on 0131 285 0695 or emailing us at edinburgh@robertsonfineart.com
This is JJ's first piece inspired by the riveting 1986 action film Top Gun, with the original work being created as a commission for a private collector. JJ has recreated the memorable scene where a young Tom Cruise playing Maverick and Goose encounter aggressive Russian MiG fighters whilst in the air. They need to respond but show restraint and not use their weapons. Instead, both sets of pilots attempt to outmaneuver each other using their flying skills. Maverick clearly wins this encounter for the Americans by turning his F-14 Tomcat upside down over the MiG so they can give the Russian pilots the middle finger and take a Polaroid picture of the encounter while Goose exclaims "Watch the birdie!". This image has been re-created using two very distinctive JJ-esque styles. The first being the 'classic poster' format that can be seen in a number of his most popular works including 'Time Traveller', 'Self Preservation Society' and 'Mission From God'. This time the poster is asking if you have what it takes to sign up to the Top Gun Academy - and it seems they are seeking some pretty comical skills from their recruits.. like the ability to 'flip the bird'. Another inspiration tied into this particular piece is JJ's love of video games - influencing quite a couple of his well-known works like 'Game Paused' and 'Arcade Wizard'. This time he has used the layout of the popular game 'After Burner' - where the player assumes control of an American F-14 Tomcat fighter jet and must fight incoming enemies using missiles. You will notice the games logo in the bottom corner, the score count at the top right corner and the 'Insert Coin' sign in the center of the screen.
It completely makes sense to marry this video game with the movie, as Suzuki actually designed it around the film in order to make it more approachable for worldwide audiences.
The targets are set on a number of various planes in the distance, including a Tomcat and the 'Dogturd Express' - a hilarious reference to the scene in the film where Stinger tells Maverick "And if you screw up just this much, you'll be flying a cargo plane full of rubber dog sh** out of Hong Kong!"
This piece is just bursting with smaller references hidden in true JJ style, but I can't possibly begin to go through every single one or I will be here for the rest of the week... so I'll leave it to you to get one for yourself and try and spot them!
Purchase 'Smile For The Birdie' here
In 2007 the ‘Made in Scotland from Girders’ campaign was awarded ‘Best Advertising Slogan of the Last 21 Years’ at the Scottish Advertising Awards.
Seen as we are talking about confidential drink recipes and all that.. here's another little secret we would like to share with you. This is not the first time JJ has created an Irn Bru inspired work.... when he was just 18 years old he painted a huge mural on his bedroom wall of the stuff... and here's the picture below to prove it. This makes us very happy!!
You can see the full collection of The Rebel Bears works here and please get in touch with your nearest gallery for more information or to arrange a viewing.
]]>Call us now on 0131 285 0695 if you would like to discuss the work of Emma Gibbons further - or would like to talk about the possibility of a commission!
]]>The man never fails to completely knock it out of the park... and even given the current circumstances, this series was another huge success with fans when released last Saturday! You know at Robertson Fine Art we just love to take a closer look to bring you all the hidden messages and little 'Easter Eggs' and now more than ever we believe this is important as our galleries are temporary closed and everything is instead being brought to you 'virtually'. So sit back in the comfort of your own home.. and enjoy!
COOLER KING II
We kick things off with the follow up edition to JJ's best selling original 'Cooler King' - believe it or not this is still one of the most requested JJ works to date, so many fans will be overjoyed to see this one make an appearance in his newest collection. Available in both colour and black and white variations, 'Cooler King II' is another sensational depiction of the late and great Steve McQueen - and really embodies everything this actor was known for - both on and off screen. There are of course many aspects of this new piece that are reminiscent to the original version, which was released back in 2015. Steve sports another pair of blue jeans a pink t-shirt and the exact wrist watch from his hit film 'Bullit' and you will also notice 'Cool King' tattooed across his knuckles, just like the initial piece. Steve's memorable Mustang from 'Bullit' makes another appearance - this time in the form of a tattoo on his right arm, and there are similar references to his classic 'The Great Escape' with the inclusion of a baseball and glove by his side and a tattoo of the unforgettable scene in the film with McQueen on his Motorcycle and the HALT sign post behind him. What makes this adaption unique from the original, is that JJ has chosen here to include details of Steve McQueen's life and successes outside of his film career alone. Steve had a particular passion for Motorcycles all of his life and it was in fact Steve himself who suggested the motorcycle jump over the border fence at the end of 'The Great Escape'. Throughout his life he managed to acquire an impressive collection of over 200 different models - many of them made by the Swedish Manufacturers 'Husqvana' - hence their logo inked up on Steve's arm. The bike featured behind him is a 1964 TR6 SC and signifies the wonderful tale of a time that Steve McQueen is said to have described as one of the proudest moments of his life.... In 1964 he was chosen along with 4 if the best American off road riders at that time, to represent the United States in the official ISDT (International Six Days Trial) In Germany. His Triumph Trophy was number 278 and JJ perfectly pays tribute to the inclusions of the yellow number plate and 'Triumph' logo on McQueen's t-shirt. This is the perfect addition to your collection, whether you managed to get your hands on the first edition, or you just missed out. Steve McQueen's 'star’ shines as brightly as ever these days, and the man is still relevant some 40 years after he left us - and JJ Adams portrayal of this man perfectly embodies everything this legend was known and loved for.
*to purchase on our website - Click the image or here for colour, or here for black and white*
MOVE ALONG
POSTMAN PATRICK
This wouldn't be a proper JJ Adams collection without a sprinkling of one or two 'Rule Britannia' themed works... and this one is undoubtedly highlighting our key British postal service and courier company, who have been operating for over 500 years and are now more than ever considered particularly vital given our current climate. The Royal Mail red post box is somewhat of a conventional sight now across Britain and just like our red telephone boxes have become especially iconic - so it wouldn't have been long before we saw JJ make this a focal point for one of his works. Actually, this work is quite reminiscent of JJ's earlier 'London's Calling' - and in fact, the placement seems to be just in front of the exact wall on Downing Street (although in this particular image he has, rather comically, included the letter R above the signage in order to transform it into 'Drowning Street') You will also see his classic 'It's Not Cheap' and 'Welcome To London' slogans dotted around, as well as the iconic 'Love is Like Punk, Not Dead' scribbled in black paint. This time however, it's crossed out and instead has been changed to 'Love Is Dead, Unlike Punk' - Sham 69 (Sham 69 being a British Punk Rock band who interestingly got their name from a piece of graffiti wall art)
Ok, ok so I know you're probably asking, but what about the main feature in among all of this?! Don't worry everyone, I haven't forgotten about the most famous fictional postman peering out from the letter box... Yeah, we've found you Pat... and your black and white cat! What's he doing in there though? He could be trying to hide from 2020 so far... or maybe it's because back in 2000 Royal Mail actually sacked him from his duties. Well, not so much 'sack' per say as, you know, hes not a real person, but it did come to light that after 20 years of service they had made the decision to no longer use Pat to promote their business after stating he no longer fit in with the company's "corporate image." Whatever the reasoning behind it may be, it seems Pat's used his own set of keys to stuff himself into that post box and they all appear to be attached to a Mickey Mouse key chain. This is possibly to make light of the fact that back in 2005, Postman Pat was sold to the Japanese division of the Disney Channel. Postman Pat is not the only famous British character to feature in this work either... down on the right hand side you will notice Danger Mouse speeding of a drain his yellow car and on even closer inspection, a little Morph waving out from the corner. This is available in both a standard and a special 'Rainbow Edition'
*to purchase on our website - Click the image or here for standard, or here for special rainbow edition*
PEACE, LOVE & AUDREY
Sometimes in life simplicity is key.. and when it comes to film and fashion icon Audrey Hepburn, you bet even JJ Adams will let her beauty do most of the talking. JJ has perfectly combined her renowned movies and unforgettable style with his signature 'modern day twists' and tattoo's. The title 'Peace, Love & Audrey' may be inspired by her 1956 hit 'Peace & War' as Audrey raises a hand, embellished with the letters that spell out 'LOVE' on each knuckle, to create the peace gesture. You will more than certainly recognise the black short sleeved dress and gleaming pearl necklace shes donning here, as it's arguably one of the most famous outfits in history - it is without doubt her LBD in the legendary 'Breakfast At Tiffany's'. Audrey was and still to this day is an unprecedented fashion trailblazer and would regularly be seen concealing her eyes behind a pair of over-sized sunglasses and a luxurious scarf draped around her head. This became just one of her many signature styles after she appeared in the 1963 classic 'Charade'. Audrey once said: "When I wear a silk scarf I never feel so definitely a woman, a beautiful woman." The reflection in Audrey's sunglasses are still to this day two of her most undisputed and outstanding characters to date - Holly the party animal and a socialite in 'Breakfast At Tiffany's, and the contemporary princess Anne in 'Roman Holiday'. The news headline which is subtly coming through against the pink background also makes reference to Hepburn's role in 'Roman Holiday'. It reads 'Holden & Hepburn Awarded Top Oscars' - Audrey Hepburn who relatively unknown at the time of filming did in fact with Best Actress for her role as Princess Anne (... and then lost it in the ladies loo!) Audrey Hepburn was also one of only 14 who have made it into the coveted 'EGOT' group. She won an Emmy (for Gardens of the World with Audrey Hepburn), a Grammy (for Audrey Hepburn's Enchanted Tales), an Oscar (for Roman Holiday), and a Tony (for Ondine.) And lastly.. to tie in JJ's additional tattoo 'Believe' on Audrey's right hand, I want to leave you with memorable quote from the lady herself:
“I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day and I believe in miracles.”
*to purchase on our website - Click the image or here for colour, or here for black and white*
DEER IN THE HEADLIGHTS
A last minute entry to the new Spring Collection - 'Deer In The Headlights' was completed by JJ and added to the collection on the morning of the release last weekend and was a piece he deemed essential. Bright, beautiful and even somewhat haunting in its appearance, this one has a completely different feel to many JJ Adams works. Maybe that is because this touches on a more serious topic - the one that is going around us as I sit and write this. The title refers to the act of someone being caught in a state of paralyzing surprise, fear, or bewilderment and this really seems to highlight the nations current state, as everyone scrambles to try and make the best of such an uncertain situation. The car that's heading right into the path of the noble stag is a 'Gran Torino' model, which interestingly was first manufactured on the same year that JJ himself was born. The word 'King' is graffitied onto the deer's body, a tribute to the Veteran graffiti artist King Robbo, who sadly passed away in 2014. King Robbo rose to prominence in London in the 1980s and notoriously feuded with fellow artist Banksy. He was considered by many to have changed the art world and clearly his legacy has had a lasting impact on JJ Adams. The dimly lit alleyway is reminiscent of many of JJ's pieces over the years and the same location seems to appear in 'Spidey-Pool', 'Mission From God' and 'Dance With The Devil II'. Lastly, you will notice the registration plate says 'Luckily'.. suggesting that as the car has stopped in the nick of time so it seems, there is light at the end of the tunnel and maybe, just maybe... time is actually on our side now.
*to purchase on our website - Click the image or here*
WIND IN THE WILLOWS
The Wind in the Willows is one of the most famous English children’s books, one of the most memorable novels about animals, and a classic book about “messing about in boats.” ...and that is exactly what we find going on here, in this incredible follow up to JJ's popular and now sold out 'Jolly Holiday'. A whole lot of chaos and mischief is transpiring upon the 'Jolly Codger' - an apparent play on the the traditional name for the flags flown to identify a pirate ship about to attack 'Jolly Roger'. The boat might look suspiciously similar to Rosie and Jim's famous narrowboat 'The Ragdoll', but it's clear to see it has now been seized by a whole host of unusual characters. The first one to mention here would obviously be Mr Churchill himself, peering out of the window - as this just wouldn't be a follow up to Jolly Holiday without him in there giving us all the old 'V for Victory' sign. On closer inspection of the vessel you'll notice the notorious Captain Hook about to shoot off a canon into the distance and his alligator lurking close by. Captain Pugwash is directing the show at the front of the boat, as the most renowned sailor in all the Disney Kingdom, Donald Duck pokes his head out from a window below deck. The gang from 'Wind in the Willows' also make an appearance in various nooks and crannies around the boat as-well as they are joined by Popeye and Edmund Blackadder (and this might prompt fond memories of hilarious episode from Blackadder II - 'Potatos' when Edmund finds himself buying a ship to impress the Queen... and if you haven't already seen this one then I suggest you do!) You will also recognise Admiral Horatio Nelson riding on the back of the boat and JJ has also included the STS Lord Nelson sailing ship in the distance. This clearly alludes to another earlier JJ work - 'England Expects.. Too Much' released in the summer of last year, that features Nelson's column in Trafalgur Square. There are some comical additions to Nelson's uniform including a pirate patch and a hook on his right arm to complete his 'pirate style' look - these also happen to be incredibly fitting well for Nelson, as he lost the sight in his right eye during the siege of Calvi in 1794 and had his right arm amputated after it was shot in 1797. Finally, the last part I want to draw your attention to the inscription on the front of the boat that reads: 'H.M.S Cornwall' and the tiny date scribbled on the side '5th of April 1942'... but what does it mean I hear you ask? Well, H.M.S Cornwall was a County-class heavy cruiser of the Kent sub-class built for the Royal Navy in the mid-1920s. The ship was sunk on 5 April by dive bombers from three Japanese aircraft carriers during the Indian Ocean Raid and JJ has paid homage to this little piece of history in this unbelievably wacky and utterly entertaining work of art.
*to purchase on our website - Click the image or here*
LAST GAS
We will wrap this up with the sensational 'Last Gas'. The next installment in JJ's own fabricated adventure tale, told through a series of works like 'Mel's Diner' and 'What Happen's In Vegas' - this was leaked the day before the official release and unsurprisingly sold out almost instantly. In this image we can see that the gang (and some new faces) have made it to the next destination on their haphazard roadtrip... the 'Overlooked Motel'. JJ actually provided a little story with this one and I wanted to include it all for your enjoyment, as there's no better explanation than the one that comes straight from the man himself :
After grabbing a quick bite to eat at Mel's Diner they hit the road, after a few hours they finally came across the infamous Overlooked Motel. The General Lee was parked up and abandoned outside exactly as they had been told it would be and there was no sign of the Duke boys. Something didn't feel right. There was an eerie supernatural feeling about the place as though the air itself was electrified. Boba headed for the front desk to ask some questions...
He's not wrong - there are definitely a lot of shifty characters hanging around this one. Moving from left to right - the very first one you will spot the original 1990 Pennywise hiding in the corner - who of course was originally conjured up by author Stephen King. Another renowned horror novel written by King is 'The Shining' so I'm sure you wouldn't be surprised to see some subtle references to this thrown in here too. The classic American fast food chain 'Wendy's' sign has been transformed with the unmistakable image of Wendy Torrance. Danny's bike from the classic 'hallway scene' sits up front and the words 'Redrum' have been marked in red on the wall. You will also notice an orange Dodge Roller parked up outside the hotel - which you may just recognise as being the stunt car from 'The Dukes Of Hazzard'.... but where are cousins Bo and Luke Duke? Well if you look closely enough in Bobba Fett's hand you might see a 'Missing' poster with both the boys faces appearing, so they might have just got themselves into a bit too much trouble this time! Screw your eyes and take a closer look and you might just be able to make out a 'Wanted' poster pasted to the wall of the motel. Well, if you've ever seen the TV series 'Twin Peaks' you'll know exactly who this man is...Killer BOB is a fictional character and the main antagonist of the television series, he is an interdimensional entity who feeds on pain and sorrow - or to put it more plainly.. not the type of person you want running around freely near the place where you've come to lay your head for the night! Some other characters popping up in various places are 'Slimer' from Ghostbusters, 'Gizmo' and a few menacing Gremlins (who also appear in the original Mel's Diner)... and looks like the A-Team have just joined the party too. T-1000 and Kermit have just made it to the Overlooked Motel - probably for a little honeymoon getaway after getting hitched in Vegas (In What Happens In Vegas) and sadly, it looks like we have one casualty out of all of this... little Wall-E appears to have been run over by the Delorean!! Wow.. what can we say, JJ has pulled it out the bag with this one again and if you were lucky enough to snap this up before it sold out then hats off to you!
To purchase any of the works please go to JJ's full Spring collection 2020 section on our website by clicking here!
]]>- So Michelle, can you talk to us a little about your process when it comes to creating each artwork?
I visualise ideas in my head before I plan anything in regards to creating.
Once I have a picture I’d like to create it goes down in a note book and then I start working out how I can make it work.
I book a model I know will suit my creation, then source props, costumes etc as well as finding a location.
The next step is to photograph everything on location, with this I have to think about angles and stock shots of my props, model and anything else that may need adding in after the shoot.
My final process is where the magic happens I guess you could say, this is where I put everything together digitally using layers and other techniques I’ve picked up over time, using unique colour toning and textures giving a sometimes painterly effect. It is at this stage that the images tend to take on a life of their own and evolve into what they should be, this part can be extremely time consuming.
- Your works are often surreal and 'dreamlike', what inspires your imagery?
I honestly get inspired by so many things.
I have dyslexia and I’m sure this makes me think and see things a little differently, I like to see all things visually.
It’s funny that you say dreamlike as a lot of my images have come to me in dream form.
If I have a message or a story I want to share I’ll find ways of expressing that visually whether it’s using props or certain colours (Red can express passion, pain and love) Or maybe just a pose for the Model that may evoke.
I get Inspiration from stories, poetry, films, places, people and how they express themselves but most of all I think it’s the constant search for escapism.
I look for magic in everything! So I’m a massive fan of symbolism and what they represent, I might find an object and think about a story relating to it and
what it could mean. It’s the visual storytelling and creating intrigue, the thought of looking at a picture and losing yourself even if it is just for a split second.
- What do you feel is your biggest achievement as a working artist so far?
This would have to be the fact that people have not only connected with the work but wanted to take it home with them,
When someone sends you a message to say that their art has just arrived and they can't stop looking at it, It really doesn't get better than that.
- Without giving too much away, what can your fans expect to see in this new collection?
A little bit of mystery, magic, and there maybe a puppet too!
- Have you faced any challenges when creating this new series?
I think the biggest challenge with any series is to try not to question yourself too much, I am my own biggest critique.
- What do you look forward to most about your upcoming exhibition with us in Edinburgh?
Well this is my first time in Scotland so that in itself is exciting, But I can't wait to see my new collection hanging in the amazing Roberson's Fine Art Gallery,
and hearing other people’s interpretations of the collection.
Michelle's brand new collection will be unveiled in our Edinburgh gallery on Saturday the 7th of March from 1-4pm + she will be here to meet you all and discuss the new works. Please RSVP now to edinburgh@robertsonfineart.com to be added to our guestlist - we look forward to seeing you there!
You can also view Michelle's current collection with us here at Robertson Fine Art by clicking here
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JJ Adams - Autumn Collection Launch 2019 from Red Five Films on Vimeo
The Aberdeen Art Fair led us into September and naturally, we were still on a complete high from the events of the JJ exhibition and continued to sell out of his recent collection for most of this month. Then we began to prepare ourselves for one of the busiest months in our diary...
JJ released another two new limited edition works at the beginning of November, which were fueled by the ongoing political chattering of 'Brexit' - cue a sell out screen print mocking Boris Johnson, in the same fashion of last years hugely popular 'Make America Golf Again'....
Saturday 9th November marked our first ever Exhibition and Personal Appearance with celebrated Scottish landscape artist, Lynn Rodgie.
We could hardly wait to welcome Lynn to our Hanover Street Gallery, in a city which has given her so much inspiration in recent years and were incredibly excited to unveil the 60+ original oil paintings, making this her largest ever series of works all on display together! We had the best day and so many of you not only got the chance to meet Lynn for the first time, but also got to take home some really beautiful original works. We have had a fantastic run with Lynn's work since the show and we are really looking forward to planning another exhibition with her soon!
With only a moment to catch our breaths, we were on our way to the 15th anniversary of the Edinburgh Art Fair. We exhibited over the weekend of the 21st to the 24th of November with some incredible collections from our best artists including - JJ Adams, Gerard M Burns, Jolomo, Katy Jade Dobson and Peter Howson. The show was another huge success for us - selling a record number of originals over the 4 days.
We returned to the gallery to set up for final personal appearance of the year and obviously we had to go out with a bang! After a tremendous initial year with Craig Davison on board, sold out collections and an amazing personal appearance last November, Craig's first ever show in Scotland, we were thrilled that he was back for another appearance and collection launch this year! On Saturday the 30th of November 1-3pm we welcomed his fans to the gallery to see his entire available body of work on display. It was a fantastic day and the perfect chance to have artworks personally dedicated and have a chat with Craig, plus the opportunity to see his fabulous full collection all together in one place!
We are really looking forward to seeing what Craig Davison has in store for us next year as he discussed a few potential designs with us (that we are keeping tight lipped on at the moment though I'm afraid!)
This month we have been enjoying the Christmas rush, getting in the festive spirit with our 2019 'virtual calendar' (you can follow this on social media!) and delving into our diary to prepare all of our events and exhibitions in order to make 2020 just as amazing as this one has been! Please follow us on social media or sign up to our monthly newsletter at edinburgh@robertsonfineart.com to be the first to hear about all future highlights with us.
We would like to take this time to personally thank each and every one of you for your business with us this year and making 2019 as exceptional as it was - we really couldn't have done it all without you!
And of course, all of The Robertson Fine Art Team wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year and we really look forward to welcoming you back into our galleries in 2020!
EDINBURGH ART FAIR (21ST -24TH NOVEMBER 2019)
We are incredibly proud to be part of The Edinburgh Art Fair this weekend, the UK’s leading, most prestigious art fair outside London - as they celebrate their 15th anniversary! The event will be held at Edinburgh's Corn Exchange and is set to display around 3,000 works of art for sale from over 60 galleries of national and international standing with works from over 500 global artists (including ourselves!!) . There is estimated to be more than 15,000 people in attendance over the course of the 4 days... so if the reasons above have enticed you to try hitting your local art fair this year then this is THE place to go! You can find more information on how to get there and where to find our stand this year here
We can't wait to welcome you there!
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Fresh off the back of his recent success at a special dinner - raising a whopping £100,000 for charity with his exceptional portrait of rugby legend Doddie Weir - we will have an exceptional selection of Gerard Burns on display in our gallery, ranging between £2,500 - £20,000. Expect to see classic Red Coats and Money scenes and also some very recent works he has completed with the Royal Scottish Ballet as his main focus. Please see a few sneak peaks of the collection - which is going to include around 10 new original works!
GORDON CORRINS
The very talented Gordon Corrins has shot to major success with his exceptionally realistic representations of wildlife, and his completely unique techniques have saw him transform overnight from a local artist selling his work through social media, to a firm Robertson Fine Art favourite with fans now across the globe! Also, of course, with our current climate and many of these beautiful animals in danger or facing extinction - there is a very crucial message within these works that Gordon himself is highly passionate about. Our exhibition will include some brand new original works from big cats to friendly furry pets and we will be launching a brand new collection of 3 limited edition prints to go along with them - please see images below. Gordon will also be attending the event on Saturday the 8th of June from 2-6pm to talk about his complex processes with you all.
JAMES KLINGE
Glasgow based spray paint and stencil artist James Klinge has been extremely busy working on new pieces and new styles in his studio at the moment - and we are over the moon that we are going to be able to reveal some of these to you at our upcoming exhibition! We are also delighted that James will be making an appearance at our grand opening on Saturday so a fantastic opportunity to hear about his process at the same time. See some sneak peeks below of what's to come..
PETER HOWSON
We will have a very large collection of display of original studies and pastels from the legendary Peter Howson - all featuring his signature style. We will have a total of 24 originals altogether - one of our biggest arrays of Howsons since our very successful exhibition back in 2017. Howson is a former official British war artist who works from his imagination. He draws inspiration from world unrest, religious beliefs and mythology, utilising classical technical skills from his heroes, Goya, DaVinci, Bruegel and El Greco.
FRANK MCFADDEN
Glasgow based Frank McFadden, protégé of the great Peter Howson, has really honed in on his individual style this year and has been working tirelessly on some seriously impressive original oil paintings and pastels. In fact, he has created some of his largest and most complex works to date - and we are thrilled to be the first gallery to display these recently completed works in all of their glory. You will see some sneak peeks below and I would say that these pieces really have to be seen in the flesh to be truly appreciated because of their amazing scale and attention to detail.
JOHN POW
Our local photography artist John Pow has been making quite the impression with our clients since releasing his incredible 'Three Bridges' with us last year - and we are incredibly excited to be showcasing his first ever collection with Robertson Fine Art - you can expect 8 stunning images featuring Edinburgh cityscape, the rolling hills of Glencoe and beautiful shots of Eilean Donan castle. Below are just a few of the images you will be able to view during the exhibition - just to get you as excited as we are! John is also set to appear at our grand opening along with his new images.
LYNN RODGIE
Bright bold and beautiful - The landscapes of artist Lynn Rodgie's are destined to stand out in any circumstance and rightfully command attention in a gallery setting! Based in the Borders Lynn creates incredible scenes, using only palette knives, of Edinburgh and the East Coast. We have a fantastic mixture of original works here on display ahead of her solo exhibition with us here later in the year.
KERR RODGIE
It's true... talent really does run in the family! Also on display at our exhibition will be the work of landscape artist Kerr Rodgie, who also happens to be the son of Lynn Rodgie! Taking long cycle trips around Skye and the Western Isles with his family, Kerr has developed a strong, nostalgic body of work and has been using these trips as a source of his material for many years now. We will be showcasing a new series of original oil paintings from Kerr and you can see some sneak peeks of these below.
SCOTT NAISMITH
Since graduating from Duncan Of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, Scott Naismith has been a full time artist, working from his studio in Glasgow and producing some incredibly vibrant and eyecatching Scottish landscape paintings - which are now widely recognised. We will have a vast display of limited edition works from Scott on display at our exhibition.
JACK VETTRIANO
For more than twenty years Jack Vettriano's paintings have enjoyed worldwide acclaim and he is now regarded as one the most-loved painters of our time.We will have a fantastic collection of some of the most widely collectable signed limited editions from Jack hanging for the duration of our exhibition.
ALEXANDER MILLAR
Alexander Millar is one of the most popular and collectable artists working today. His paintings hang in galleries and private collections all over the world and he is continuing to gain critical acclaim for the works he produces - we will have a generous display of his originals and limited edition works featuring his classic gadgies, on display at the exhibition.
GEORGINA MCMASTER
Georgina McMaster's beautiful depictions of Scottish wildlife have been popular with our clients over the years - so we are delighted to welcome a number of her limited edition prints to the exhibition this weekend!
'The Scottish Contemporaries Exhibition' grand opening will take place at Robertson Fine Art Edinburgh, this Saturday the 8th of June from 2-6pm. If you would like to attend this event then please RSVP to edinburgh@robertsonfineart.com or contact us for more information.
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You'll Never Take Our Tunnocks
On the run up to our personal appearance with him and his first show ever in Scotland, Craig Davison completed this incredible exclusive Braveheart inspired work for Robertson Fine Art entitled 'You'll Never Take Our Tunnocks' - the original of this sold pretty much instantly.
Personal Appearance 2018
In November 2018 Craig had his first ever personal appearance with Robertson Fine Art - it was an incredibly busy day and many fans came out to meet the man himself and chat to him about his very original ideas and inspirations!
We are incredibly proud to represent Craig Davison - our artist of the week, and we hope you can attend his event with us this year! To RSVP to his personal appearance on the Saturday the 30th of November please email us at edinburgh@robertsonfineart.com - and keep close to your computers this Saturday when we will see the release of brand new works for Craig's Spring Collection launch!
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