Frankophilia! Exhibition: Opening Night

Last night was the opening night of Frankophilia! An exhibition celebrating the life and times of Frank Sidebottom and his creator Chris Sievey. Suzanne Smith Curator the Chapman Gallery at Salford University was inspired to create the show after seeing the creative ways that fans paid tribute after his sad passing in June.

I submitted two pieces for the show, ‘Alas poor Little Frank’painted back in 2006 inspired by Lord Ronald Sutherland Gower’s statue of Hamlet in Stratford-upon-Avon. (A piece he not only signed for me but he also compared it to the works of an old master!)



‘The Indestructible Frank Sidebottom' Frank made no secret of his passion for the works of Gerry Anderson so, in this piece Frank is depicted in a precarious situation reminiscent of the classic Ron Embleton paintings seen at the end credits of Captain Scarlet. Both pieces framed in ‘antique’ puppet pal cherub frames.

On arrival we were greeted by an array of touching tributes. Frank’s likeness beamed back at us from every angle ranging from plasticine models to scarecrows. His trademark big blue eyes realised in every medium. Everybody seemed to be enjoying the exhibition, taking photos and chuckling as they made their way around the room. I was honoured to be a part of this exhibition and thank Suzanne for inviting me to participate, and I congratulate everyone involved! I’m sure he would have loved it!



Frankophilia!, runs until December 18 at The Chapman Gallery at Salford University Wednesday to Saturday between 12pm and 5pm.