Last night, a ground-breaking collection of four painted portraits will be unveiled, immortalising a selection of beautiful and influential women; including Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra, Beyoncé, Princess Diana, and Veronica Lake. This extraordinary project is the result of a unique collaboration between artists Sequin Kay and Gerry Kinch, who together have seamlessly combined their talent and vision to create these modern masterpieces.
The entire ICONS Collection was previewed at Sheesh, Mayfair on October 15th.
Gerry Kinch:
“This collection is not just about the women we depict but also about their cultural impact. Each piece is a reflection of their strength and resilience, crafted to resonate with viewers on a personal level.”
Sequin Kay:
“With shimmering crystals and vibrant colours, we aim to create a dialogue between the past and the present, illuminating the power of these women and the impact they continue to have on our lives and hearts.
Each artwork in this ICONS Collection, is a classic portrait painted by Gerry, adorned with hundreds of thousands of Swarovski crystals meticulously appliedindividually by hand by Sequin Kay. The result is a series of breath-taking artworks that dance under the lights, captivating viewers by both day and night. The synergy between the two artists highlights the juxtaposition of their styles, creating works that illuminate the essence of the inspirational women they depict.
The portrait of Cleopatra, inspired by Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal in the 1963 film, transcends mere representation; it embodies the magic, power, and allure surrounding a woman.
Gerry was drawn to the mystical aura of Cleopatra, viewing it as the perfect beginning for this new series. The choice of colours was carefully selected to harmonise with the Swarovski crystals Sequin would later add, resulting in a fusion of pigment and light which amplifies the energy and passion both artists feel for Elizabeth Taylor and what she stood for.
For Beyoncé, Gerry aimed to encapsulate the powerful energy that radiates from this fabled music icon. The size and scale of this piece are deliberately larger than life, reflecting Beyoncé’s immense musical presence. The addition of crystals enhances the artwork, emphasising the strength and dynamism that the musician represents. Both artists were invigorated by the challenge of portraying someone so vibrant and full of life, aiming to mirror the out-sized impact Beyoncé delivers in her performances.
The portrait of Veronica Lake pays homage to Gerry’s passion for Renaissance and early 20th-century art. Inspired by a black-and-white photograph from the 1930s, Gerry sought to capture the essence of that era while bringing Veronica’s character to life. The artwork evokes a nostalgic atmosphere, transporting viewers back to the days of Al
Capone and Art Deco. Using a palette of pale greys and over_thirtythousand crystals, the artists highlight the strength within Veronica’s vulnerability, creating a deeply personal and evocative piece.
The artists approached the portrait of Princess Diana with particular care, recognizing the sensitivity surrounding her legacy. Gerry sought to honour the “People’s Princess,” experimenting with various techniques to capture her beauty and kindness while maintaining a sense of mystique. This piece, more than any other, demanded a delicate touch as Sequin Kay and Gerry Kinch aimed to balance the reverence people hold for Diana with the raw emotions that her story evokes.
Gerry Kinch’s artistic journey is a testament to resilience. Overcoming a turbulent early life, he transformed his A-level in art into a career into a short-lived career as a sign-writer. A key skill he acquired during his time at a sign company was gold leafing, which became a hallmark of his artistic practice. His work gradually gained recognition, attracting high-profile clients, including Sir Alan Sugar, and prestigious establishments like The Goring Hotel, The British Museum and interiors for Ralph Lauren. Inspired by the grandeur of the Sistine Chapel, Gerry’s art reflects a fusion of classical Renaissance techniques with modern materials’, pushing the boundaries of creativity while remaining true to his roots.
Sequin Kay, raised in the vibrant, multicultural environment of South London, formalised her artistic training at Camberwell College of Arts and Goldsmiths University. Since then, she has established her signature style; exhibited her artwork in over 12 different countries and her unique art pieces have been collected internationally. Her work
delves into eclectic themes: the cosmos, automatic drawing, surrealism, all infused with personal wisdom and philosophical exploration. Sequin’s fascination with anything that shimmers speaks to an ancient allure, offering a window into her inner world.
The collaboration between Gerry Kinch and Sequin Kay stands as a celebration of art, resilience, and the enduring legacy of remarkable women throughout history. The collection invites viewers to experience these iconic figures in a truly unique way, showcasing the beauty and strength that has inspired generations.
