That’s an unusually good painting of Tom Jones, William!
Artist sells portrait signed by superstar Welsh singer
Published: 12th November, 2010
by PETER GRUNER
STRUGGLING artist William Denison has always been a Tom Jones fan so when he heard that the singer was coming to the Union Chapel in Highbury he decided to paint the Welsh superstar.
William, 51, from Archway, attends the art group at the Chapel’s Margins Project, which supports local residents facing homelessness, poverty or isolation.
Following his sell-out concert at the Chapel in September, Jones was shown William’s painting and liked it so much he decided to sign it.
The painting, measuring 24 x 18 inches, was later auctioned at the Chapel with a starting price of £50. Scottish-born William, a former labourer, said: “I couldn’t believe it but the price continued to rise until it was sold to a woman – who wants to remain anonymous – for £500.” Fifteen per cent of the proceeds went to Margins and the rest was received by William.
He said: “It was a lot of money for me and I immediately went out and bought myself something I’ve needed for a long time – a new bed.”
Through the Margins Project, William believes he has been able to grow and develop as an artist, learn skills such as picture framing, and find the support and friendship to keep pursuing his creative flair. He has since been commissioned to paint two more Tom Jones paintings by other guests at the concert.
More of William’s work and that of other artists who attend the Margins Project are on display in the Union Chapel’s Ascension Art Gallery.