JOHN ILLSLEY may be known globally for the iconic rock anthems of Dire Straits, but he also has another creative side being showcased in town.
The founder member and bass player of Dire Straits, originally studied at Goldsmith’s College while he was living in digs, but life moved on and although 120 million albums confirmed music as his main path, his passion for painting was nurtured and managed to survive.
The guitar paintings – of Gibsons, Fenders, Les Pauls – reflect John’s musical career and obvious love of music as he explains:
“When I was quite young I always considered myself an artist, but I didn’t really know whether I was any good or whether it was just part of an egotistical journey.
Obviously music took over, so it wasn’t until Mark and I stopped doing the Straits, that I turned to art again to fill in the creative gap and it took me about eight years of produce anything decent.
There are parallels between art and music in that you start with nothing and try and communicate a sense of love or experience of life, but art is more of a solitary indulgence whereas playing in a band creates a collective energy which isn’t just about you.”
The exhibition comprises a substantial body of very accomplished work focusing on his two great loves, the guitar and the French countryside.
Being a member of one of the world’s biggest ever groups until they disbanded in 1995 allowed John to travel the world and visit many of the major art galleries along the way, with his self-styled retirement allowing him the opportunity and time to concentrate on his art.
The French oils interpret Provence, one of the most painted landscapes of the last 200 years and, notwithstanding echoes of his eminent predecessors, John has brought his own voice and style to the subject.
The exhibition will remain at Chelsea Art Gallery, 29 Lowndes Street, SW1 9HY, located next door to Jumeirah Carlton Tower Hotel, from June 12th – 24th.
This love of music and all things guitars is reinforced on June 23rd when John plays a one off London gig at the 100 Club along with Greg Pearle of Irish band, Cunla, with tracks from their new album, “Beautiful You” being showcased.
For more information and tickets check out www.johnillsley.com
William Cookson (Artist), Gemma Brosnan, John Illsley (Artist/Musician), photo credit: The Fifth Estate
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