Widow of John Lennon, Yoko Ono presents “Come Together”, the artwork of John Lennon, at the Number 9 Gallery, located on 9th and Pearl St. on Sept. 22 – Sept. 24.
On opening night “Come Together” was praised by observers.
“I find the entire collection of artwork extremely personal and down to earth,” said Emily Converse, a freshman communication major. “It is something no one has ever seen except for John and his wife.”
The exhibit displays 100 pieces of Lennon’s artwork. A majority are limited addition prints, and there are between five and 10 original drawings. The collection includes line drawings, and the limited addition artwork includes lithographs, serigraphs and copper etchings reproduced from the original drawings.
“Most people are familiar with his song and time with the Beatles and maybe his messages, but more often than not people didn’t know he was an artist,” said Rudy Siegel, director of media relations and sales consultant for Legacy Fine Arts & Productions. “This is an opportunity for people from another generation to visit a simple message of an icon from the 20th century.”
There are several collections on display at the exhibit. One collection titled “Beatle Lyrics” presents lithographs of famous Beatle songs including: “Dive My Car,” “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” and “Revolution.”
Another collection, titled “Solo Lyrics” includes “Woman,” “Instant Karma” and “Imagine.”
“The artwork brings people together from all walks of life,” said Siegel. “Attending is an opportunity for students to have an out of classroom experience through this one man who helped shape the lives of millions and millions of people.”
Lennon’s artwork “is similar to his songs, in that with a few lines or stokes he’s able to covey a message or meaning,” said Siegel.
“Come Together” is produced by Legacy Fine Art & Productions, which is based out of West Palm Beach, FL. The exhibit has traveled the country for the past 12 years, and this is its first showing in Boulder.
“I came to view the show because John has been so much a part of my earlier life. It is fascinating that the exhibit came to Boulder,” said Renate Rose, a Boulder resident.
Each showing of “Come Together” benefits a local charity. The exhibit is free but observers are encouraged to give a $2 donation which will go to The Children’s Hospital.
Legacy Fine Art & Productions radio partner was KBCO who helped organize the donations with The Children’s Hospital. In a weekend showing Legacy Fine Art & Productions typically raises between $3,000 and $10,000.
Although Yoko Ono presents “Come Together,” don’t expect to see her at the showing.
“In the past eight years she has attended only two or three [shows]. She likes to keep the focus on John and his artwork rather than her,” said Siegel. “When she does come it is unannounced.”
Attendance at each showing is usually between 3,000 and 7,000 people. So far “Come Together” has been well received in the community and Legacy Fine Arts & Productions expects a very strong showing.
“I love the Beatles. I am a musician and love Lennon. John Lennon has been a good inspiration,” said Vince Ellwood, a 17-year-old Boulder resident.
The exhibit was previously in Las Vegas. Legacy Fine Art & Production will next present the show in Chicago, Boston, New Jersey or Connecticut.
