Billy Connolly launches new art collection inspired by his youth

Yahoo

16 hours ago

Billy Connolly has launched a new limited-edition art collection inspired by his youth.
Titled Windswept & Interesting, the pieces include a stainless-steel sculpture of a dancing Teddy Boy figure and two hand-signed giclée artworks.
The collection is available from Friday, June 13, at castlefineart.com and across their UK galleries.
The comedian said: "These artworks are my youth as I'd like it to have been, but it wasn't.
"I would have loved to have been a Teddy Boy, but I was too young and my parents wouldn't let me do it.
(Image: Castle Fine Art) "It's the worst reason not to be a Teddy Boy – because your parents won't let you!"
The collection's title is borrowed from Connolly's 2021 memoir, which references a description given to him by Scottish folk singer Archie Fisher.
Read more:
When to expect thunderstorms and heavy rain in Glasgow this weekend
Council urged to remove 'far-right racist' banners from Clydebank landmark
Singer behind huge 1970s hit announces Glasgow gig
Performing at the Methil Steelworks Club in Fife many years ago, Fisher told Connolly: "You're looking windswept and interesting."
Connolly said: "I thought 'Yes! That will do me,' and that's been me ever since."
Now aged 82, Connolly has vowed to uphold this persona throughout his career, influencing his attitude, outlook, and, notably, his fashion sense.
Over the past six decades, Connolly's style has played a major part in his on-stage presence, from black leotards and banana boots to boldly patterned shirts and suits.
His new artwork collection delves into these early style influences.
The character's suit in the artwork is adorned with Connolly's distinctive line work, symbolising his defiance of conventionality and his love for colour and clashing socks.
This detailing is incorporated into the stainless-steel sculpture, giving the character a lively presence.
The comedian said: "This is me, as I see myself, and I'm so proud of him."