Lancashire-born, London-based painter Louis Bennett’s latest artwork that will be going on display next month was inspired by Rod’s classic track Maggie May
Louis told SMILER today ..
I’m a huge fan of Rod’s late 60s and early 70s output and ‘Maggie May’ is a painting which I’ve made for my debut solo exhibition at Kristin Hjellegjerde gallery in London Bridge. It’s part of a body of work which explores British history, politics and generational anxiety. ‘Maggie May’ in particular was inspired by my discovery of the Rod song. I became fascinated by the story it tells, of a relationship that seems unusual – very particular and yet with universal resonance. It struck a chord with me and spoke to the way I use art as a vehicle for the personal. The painting is partly a narrative of a doomed relationship, set against the backdrop of a lakeland landscape, which for me represents a northern home I am always longing for – much as Rod does in the song – “You led me away from home, just to save you from being alone”
The painting will be on display at Kristin Hjellegjerde gallery from the 9th – 31st October and Louis says “It’d be amazing if you could encourage Rod fans to see it”!