In 2009, I was working towards a solo exhibition at Glasgow’s ArtDeCaf (Braewell Galleries). This was quite an important art exhibition for me as I was showcasing new figurative paintings which I had really put my heart and soul into for eight months before. Figurative paointings are the most taxing canvases for me to sork on and as the deadline approached I decided that it was time to lighten things up a bit.
I did this by painting “Andy Murray” in a kilt in the famous 70′s poster “Tennis Girl” pose by photographer Martin Elliot.
Not only did the painting sell before the exhibition opened but it was featured in the Uk National press and mentioned on Radio 1′s Joe Whiley. Jo mentioned my painting just before 12pm one day and my website crashed following the surge of hits. Following that, I was also interviewed by Talk Sport.
All great fun and it’s lovely to have given so many people something to smile at.
The article above was the one in the Scottish Daily Record although the painting did feature in several other Uk newspapers.
Andy Murray Kilt Painting
The Scot has been immortalised on canvas in a pose paying tribute to a famous saucy poster.
The cheeky painting depicts Murray recreating the famous 1970s photo by Martin Elliot, of a woman tennis player scratching her bum.
The artwork, entitled “New Balls Please was created by Glasgow artist Joe Hendry who is famous for his images of men in kilts.
It will go on display at ArtDeCaf in Brunswick Street on June 7, the day of the French Open with a 1500 pound price tag.
Hendry, 43 said: “Having painted other Scots such as Billy Connolly, Jack Vettriano and Robbie Coltrane, I thought it would offer light relief from more serious subject matter if I took Andy Murray and depicted him in the famous 70′s tennis pose.
“In these times of recession and negativity, it is important to remain positive and retain a sense of humour.
“Andy is a great player but also has retained his sense of humour – and I hope he sees the funny side with this artwork.”
Hendry’s work has appeared in many collections and art books.
Murray, 22 from Dunblane, is due to play Argentinian Juan Ignacio Chela in the first round of the French Open.
Martin Elliot: Tennis Girl Photographer
Following this, I was contacted by the photographer of the original 70′s Tennis Girl poster, Martin Elliot. I thought I was in trouble for using his photo for inspiration but I could not have been more wrong.
Martin was a lovely guy, he asked for a copy of my painting and I sent him a signed print. He returned the favour by sending me a signed print of Tennis Girl.
Sadly, Martin died in March 2010. I will always treasure my print.
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