New portraits of Lily Savage and Buster the dog as well as new canine ceramic figurines are among artworks set to go on show in an exhibition celebrating Paul O’Grady’s life.
The new works are commissions from seven artists, chosen after an open call for You Gotta Get a Gimmick: Paul O’Grady Story at the Williamson Art Gallery & Museum in Birkenhead.
The late TV star’s husband, Andre Portasio, is the creative director of the exhibition, which will open on 11 December.
Andre said Paul would have “loved” the fact the new works will become part of the gallery’s permanent collection and that his story had inspired “new voices, new ideas and new work that will live on beyond the exhibition”.
He said: “Paul had an extraordinary ability to connect with people from every walk of life, while always remaining completely himself.
“He gave visibility to voices and communities that were too often overlooked, and showed you should never be afraid of who you are or where you come from.
“That is why I am so proud to support these artists and to see them respond to Paul’s life and legacy through their own creativity and experiences.
“Knowing that these new works will become part of the Williamson’s permanent collection feels particularly special – Paul’s story inspiring new voices, new ideas and new work that will live on beyond the exhibition.
“I think he would have loved that.”