The new portrait is by artist Ben Youdan, who exhibits internationally and is based in Liverpool.
His mixed media work employs a wide variety of techniques and processes including collage, drawing, painting, printmaking and photography, to create imagery that takes inspiration from the iconography and ephemera of popular culture. His pieces explore themes such as identity, glamour and sexuality. Holly Johnson and Ben first exhibited together in 2002 during Liverpool Biennial, The House of Holly was curated by James Lawler on Hanover Street and featured original works by both artists in two separate rooms.
Holly said:
“His work was very striking, even then. That’s part of the reason why I commissioned him to do this (portrait). The work is based on a picture of me taken when I was 17 living in a flat on Huskisson Street. I just love Ben’s work, it’s so vibrant, and alive, and sparkly”.
Ben Youdan adds:
“It was truly amazing to be invited personally by Holly to create this portrait especially for this incredible exhibition. In so many ways it feels like a full circle moment, to create something for someone who has influenced my creativity so much over the years is wonderful. In many ways the creation of this piece is a way of thanking Holly for being such a unique trailblazer. I’m incredibly honoured.”
The Holly Johnson Story explores the incredible life of Holly Johnson and his meteoric rise to fame, where he became one of the first openly gay and openly HIV+ high profile artists in history.
The opening of this exhibition also marks the 40th anniversary release of Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s album Welcome to the Pleasuredome featuring Relax, Two Tribes and The Power of Love.
Supported by a £142,338 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, National Museums Liverpool has partnered with local arts organisations Homotopia and DuoVision in collaboration with Holly Johnson to deliver this landmark exhibition that will take visitors on a journey through Holly’s outstanding career, from his early years in Liverpool to international stardom.
The Holly Johnson Story is open at the Museum of Liverpool until Sunday 27 July 2025.