15/06/09- 21/06/09

One of the most exciting things about Dragon’s Den is seeing one of my investments come to fruition.http://www.portelli-popicon.co.uk/index.php?inc=intro

Now, those amongst you with good memories might recall Theo, Peter and I investing in a a rather unusual proposition in the last series from a rather talented commercial artist by the name of Guy Portelli.

 Guy’s specialism is the artistic interpretation of modern pop and music stars into art, and his proposition to the Dragons was to produce 18 limited pieces depicting pop artists who have really contributed to youth and popular culture. In his words:-

 Music is the language of youth culture, the vehicle by which a generation finds and expresses its unique identity and aspirations.

 The Portelli Pop Icon collection starts with Frank Sinatra as the first musical icon to be adopted by teenagers in the new radio and television world.

 The 18 pieces I have chosen for this collection have been selected because they represent a cultural shift and are therefore a milestone along the route that is a documentary on social history spanning 6 decades.

In order to bring this collection into the public domain I chose to present my concept to the Dragons' Den panel of entrepreneurs, which could either sink the boat or bring the project into the public eye at a level I have aspired to for the last 30 years.

 Well, after working together for some time now I can assure you the boat is well and truly floating, and we have an exciting week ahead of us with the unveiling of the full collection at The Mall Galleries, London on June 25th 2009.

 I can assure you that all of the Dragons involved are really looking forward to an inspirational night featuring some amazing work by a man of true passion. Two of my particular favourites are John Lee Hooker and Frank Sinatra- both very abstract, but highly representative of those music stars, although I am convinced that, when unveiled, I’ll be very tempted to purchase a couple of others, even though Guy, displaying the commercial characteristics of the true entrepreneur, is refusing to budge on discounting his rates!

 Do check out Guy’s work-

http://www.portelli-popicon.co.uk/index.php?inc=intro

 In other news, I spent the weekend relaxing in Vienna, but I managed to keep track of the T20 Cricket Final at Lords via my Blackberry, and was delighted to see Pakistan get home in a truly exciting final. Even though I’m not generally too much of a sports fan, I have enjoyed the short form of Cricket and, judging by the crowds, colour and coverage, I’m sure it’s here to stay.

 With Guy’s exhibition, many investments to look at, and some more ‘After the Den’ pieces to film, the week ahead promises to be as busy as usual, but I hope to find some time to update the blog towards the end of the week.

 Thanks for reading and speak to you soon,

Best wishes,

James.

Posted on: Monday, June 22, 2009.

Comments

Dear Sir,

Firstly I would like to congratulate you on receiving an honorary degree. I have recently started waching Dragon's Den and I must I take my hats off to you and the fellow members of the den for making others dreams become realities.

I look forward to seeing more of your work prosper
Many thanks for your time.
Fauzia Hussein

Posted by Fauzia Hussein, on Tuesday, September 29, 2009.

Nice to see you blogging James!

Posted by Tahir Ata Barry, on Monday, May 18, 2009.

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