In a delightful twist for Beatles enthusiasts, a collection of John Lennon’s vibrant pop art drawings is set to be showcased at the renowned Liverpool Beatles Museum. These unique pieces, a product of Lennon’s collaboration with American artist Stephen Verona, were originally created for a promotional film accompanying the iconic 1964 hit “I Feel Fine”.
Rediscovered Treasures
Originally comprising 240 pieces, this remarkable collection was auctioned by Christie’s in 2000 for over $58,000, but the artworks were subsequently scattered. Now, thanks to keen-eyed collector Joseph O’Donnell from Tynemouth, ten of these artworks have been reunited and are on display. O’Donnell stumbled upon them at a London auction, where he felt they did not receive the attention they deserved.
“I’m a big Beatles fan and I spotted these at an auction in London, where they weren’t really made a big deal of,” O’Donnell shared. “I thought I would have a go at bidding on them, although I thought it might go a bit crazy, and I managed to get them at a reasonable price.”
Artistic Collaboration
Lennon’s partnership with Verona began serendipitously at a London nightclub, leading to a creative session in Verona’s Manhattan apartment. The two artists spent hours colouring the drawings with felt tip markers, a moment that Verona later reminisced about fondly. Tragically, Verona passed away in 2019, but his contribution to this artistic venture remains significant.
The displayed artworks convey phrases from “I Feel Fine”, including “baby says she’s mine” and “in love with her,” with individual pieces featuring the words “and” and “I”. O’Donnell, who plans to eventually sell the collection, decided to loan them to the museum so that other fans could appreciate these pieces together, reflecting his belief in the timeless allure of The Beatles.
“I think interest in the Beatles will never go away,” he remarked. “Someone has to be the best, it’s as simple as that. There has to be a greatest band in the world, and it’s the Beatles.”
A Legacy on Display
The unveiling took place at the museum on Mathew Street, where the artworks will remain for several months, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the creative spirit of Lennon. This exhibition is not the only recent highlight at the museum; last year, a school desk once used by Lennon, which had been tucked away for years due to his reputation as a “nuisance” student, was also discovered and placed on display. This desk, found at Quarry Bank School, will be showcased alongside other significant artefacts from Lennon’s formative years, including an enrolment ledger that bears his name, signed by his aunt Mimi Smith.
The museum continues to be a vibrant hub for Beatles fans, offering a glimpse into the lives and legacies of the band members.
Why it Matters
The exhibition of John Lennon’s art serves as a poignant reminder of his multifaceted creativity beyond music. It highlights the enduring influence of The Beatles on contemporary culture, showcasing how their artistic expressions continue to resonate with fans old and new. As these pieces are displayed, they not only celebrate Lennon’s legacy but also ignite conversations about the intersection of art and music, reinforcing the idea that the spirit of The Beatles is very much alive in today’s artistic landscape.
