Collaboration and Storytelling
A crucial part of Backstage in Blackpool is collaborating with the venue managers and the performers. I have already been backstage in two locations: The Central Pier Showbar and Funny Girls. (I will be writing about these visits and the amazing performers there soon… including meeting Elvis!) Everyone has been so generous with their time and willingness to let me delve behind the curtain and capture their layman to showman transformation.
When taking photos backstage for reference images, I’m like a spy; unobtrusive, fly-on-the-wall, documenting the backstage atmosphere. I’ve enjoyed informally chatting with the performers to learn their life stories and hear of their challenges and triumphs. These conversations have been enlightening and truly inspiring, providing a wealth of material to inform my later sketches and paintings.
I am thankful to all the performers as their input will be invaluable in shaping the direction of my artwork. By understanding their personal journey and unique perspective, I can create paintings that are not only visually interesting but truly authentic.
Setting the Stage
There is still much to do to set the stage for Backstage in Blackpool! Currently, I’m working on the logistical aspects of creating a new body of artwork and, looking ahead, to arranging the final exhibition.
Besides liaising with more venues to feature their unique performers, I’m spinning plates: working on marketing opportunities and partnerships in the area and, thanks to Backstage in Blackpool Backers like you, keeping the cash-flow positive as I do the months of research and development to create this unique body of work. I’m committed to making Backstage in Blackpool a significant cultural event in the town’s artistic calendar.
Of course, then there is the ART! I’m looking forward to taking all this inspiration I am soaking up and getting paint on some canvases!
I’m looking forward to sharing more about the development of the paintings, behind-the-scenes stories from my visits backstage, and sneak peeks at the first photos and artworks to be created.
Thank you for joining me on this artistic adventure, I can’t wait to share my first visits Backstage in Blackpool with you soon.
Please SPREAD THE WORD… If you’re happy to share this link: https://jenallen.bigcartel.com/product/backstage-blackpool, it would really help with keeping the ship afloat while I create these new works. From just £10, people can get involved and help make Backstage Blackpool even bigger and better. Thank you.
