University News Last updated 08 November 2012
Iconic performers Amy Winehouse, John Lennon and Elvis Presley are being featured in a stunning art exhibition by a Birmingham City University student.
22-year-old Lucie Whitehead from Groby in Leicestershire will unveil her ‘Dead to be Iconic’ collection later this month at Lake Gallery in the Custard Factory.
Lucie’s collection of 50 portraits will depict celebrities who have died before their time, from Heath Ledger and Brittany Murphy to Billie Holiday and Jimi Hendrix. Lucie said: “I have always been drawn to illustrate people who are idolised and put on a pedestal, which then made me look into celebrities who died before their time, and consequently resulted in the title "Dead to be Iconic".
“The exhibition focuses on 50 A4 portraits, which depict stars who have died before their time, providing the idea that to be the ultimate iconic celebrity, you have to die for the title.
“I came up with the idea to show my collection to the public, as it’s such a great opportunity to get my work noticed before I finish University, as well as making the most of my student loans, which are helping to fund the exhibition. I’m hoping my exhibition will inspire fellow students to promote their own work and be creative, and that it will bring a more positive light on what students can achieve whilst at University."
Lucie, who is currently in her final year at Birmingham City University’s Institute of Art and Design, decided to put her student loan to good use, investing her funds in an art project set to showcase her work and help launch her career in the arts.
Her exhibition will take place at the Lake Gallery, located at the Custard Factory in Digbeth, from the 24-29 November, open 10am-6pm. The event is free to attend with all 50 original portraits on display and available to purchase. An opening reception will also take place on Friday 23 November, 7.30pm-10pm – with live music, cocktails and canapés. For further information or to book tickets for the opening reception please email Lucie at la.whitehead@live.co.uk.