A PORTRAIT of broadcasting legend John Peel will go on sale in Ipswich today, it has been announced. The last portrait painted of the famous DJ went on the wall at the town's corn exchange as the final entry to the John Peel memorial exhibition, in aid of Stowmarket-based disability charity Optua.
A PORTRAIT of broadcasting legend John Peel will go on sale in Ipswich today, it has been announced.
The last portrait painted of the famous DJ went on the wall at the town's corn exchange as the final entry to the John Peel memorial exhibition, in aid of Stowmarket-based disability charity Optua.
Exhibition organiser Anna Cordon said Colchester-based artist Karenza Jackson called only last night to offer the painting for the exhibition.
The portrait will join three paintings by John Peel leant to the exhibition by his widow Sheila Ravenscroft, who lives near Stowmarket.
Ms Cordon said: “I am delighted not only to have pictures painted by John on display but also to have this portrait. John sat for about ten sittings.
“It was painted shortly before he died and is on three separate panels. It will make a perfect Christmas present for a Peel fan.”
The painting is expected to carry a price tag of about £800 with Optua taking 25 per cent commission.
Ms Cordon said: “The exhibition has 100 artists both amateur and professional. There is a variety of subjects such as landscapes, wildlife, transport, and photography.”
The exhibition runs from 10:30am to 10:30pm everyday until Saturday.
JOHN Peel was last night made an honorary member of the UK hall of fame at London's Alexandra Palace.
Wife Sheila Ravenscroft and brother Alan accepted it on behalf of the DJ and broadcaster, who lived near Stowmarket.
Alan said: “I would like to say on behalf of Sheila and the family what an honour this is. We are only sad the great man himself isn't here to enjoy the moment.”
What do you think of the exhibition? Will you buy the painting? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send us an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk
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