In October, a new collection will be unveiled which immortalises some of the most influential women of all time including Cleopatra, Beyonce, Princess Diana, and Veronica Lake. The pieces were created in tandem by a unique duo in Sequin Kay and Gerry Kinch.
Painted as classic portraits by Gerry, each piece is over eight feet tall, and is finished in the finest Swarovski crystals, each placed by hand by Sequin to create truly magnificent and unique pieces of art which dance under the lights both by day and by night.
Inspiration
There is a real juxtaposition between the two artists who have combined to create modern classics, with the pieces bringing out the light in each of the inspirational women featured captured in something truly unique.
Three of the four pieces have been completed, with the fourth still in progress. The completed ICONS Collection will be previewed at the DAMAC Tower, Nine Elms, London, on October 16th.
Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra
The Cleopatra piece showing an image of Elizabeth Taylor from the 1963 movie represents more than just a historical figure; it embodies the magic, power, and allure that have surrounded Cleopatra and the pyramids for centuries. Gerry was drawn to the mystical aura of Cleopatra, seeing it as the perfect way to kick off this new series. The composition of colours was carefully chosen to complement the crystals that Sequin, his collaborator, would later add. This fusion of paint and crystals brings an added dimension to the piece, enhancing the energy and passion that Gerry feels for this iconic figure.
Beyoncé
With Beyoncé, Gerry aimed to capture the powerful energy that the singer exudes. The size and scale of the piece were intentionally chosen to reflect the larger-than-life presence of the music icon. The crystals in this painting add a unique layer, emphasising the strength and dynamism that Beyoncé represents. Gerry found excitement in painting someone who is so vibrant and full of life, and he wanted this piece to have the same punch that Beyoncé herself delivers.
Veronica Lake
Veronica Lake’s portrait (top of page) is a nod to Gerry’s love for the Renaissance and early 20th-century art. Inspired by a black-and-white photograph from the 1930s, Gerry wanted to capture the era’s essence while bringing Veronica’s character to life. The piece evokes a sense of nostalgia, taking the viewer back to the days of Al Capone and art deco. Through the use of soft black-and-white tones, Gerry brings out the strength in Veronica’s vulnerability, making it a deeply personal and evocative work. The aesthetic challenge of working with the soft tones of the photography from that era was a key part of this piece’s creation.
Princess Diana
Painting Princess Diana was a challenge for Gerry, given the sensitivity surrounding her life and legacy. He approached the piece with caution, wanting to do justice to the “People’s Princess.” Gerry experimented with different techniques to capture Diana’s beauty and kindness, all while maintaining a sense of mystique. This piece, perhaps more than any other, required a delicate touch, as Gerry sought to balance the reverence people feel for Diana with the raw emotions that her story evokes.
Gerry Kinch
Overcoming a turbulent early life, Gerry turned his A-level in art into a career in sign-writing. One of the key skills he learned during his time working for the sign company was gold leafing, or gilding. This skill became a hallmark of his craftsmanship, and he eventually gilded the entire Asian Room at the British Museum, a testament to his mastery. His work began to gain recognition, attracting high-profile clients such as Alan Sugar and renowned restaurants like Sheesh. His art, inspired by the grandeur of the Sistine Chapel, has been described as a fusion of classical Renaissance techniques with modern flair.
Gerry’s latest works reflect his deep-seated desire to push the boundaries of art while staying true to his roots. He draws inspiration from his own life experiences, blending traditional Renaissance techniques with innovative methods to create something entirely new. For Gerry, art is not just a passion—it’s a lifeline. He has said that without painting, without creating, he would not survive.
Sequin Kay
Sequin grew up in South London; a diverse and multicultural melting pot of inspiration, creativity and stimulation. She formally trained in Fine Art and Painting at Camberwell College of Arts (now UAL) and holds a PGCE from Goldsmiths University in London, UK. She established her signature style in the years after graduating; developing and exploring her practice in studios in London.
She is currently developing high end luxury art collections in Ibiza and London for private clients.
The themes explored within her collections are the cosmos, Automatic Drawing, Transpersonal Psychology, shadow work, geometric symbolism and surrealism. Each artwork and collection has layers of personal process, wisdom, healing and background philosophical research; which inform her creative studio practice, and drive her inspirations. Anything that shimmers holds a special attraction to Sequin and taps into this ancient fascination which showcases an innate reflection of her inner world.
https://www.sequinkayart.com/icons-collection
See also: Immortal Apples and Eternal Eggs at Hastings Contemporary
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