Scottish comedy legend Billy Connolly has released four new limited edition artworks that blend personal memories with professional milestones. The pieces, part of his "Born on a Rainy Day" series, are available exclusively through Castle Fine Art from Friday morning.
The collection reflects on Connolly's time touring with Elton John and cherished family moments. Each artwork combines his signature wit with intricate line-work and vibrant colours.
"It's taken me years to call my art beautiful," Connolly said. "I would never dream of saying it before for the chance that somebody would say 'it's crap, you're no good.' But I'm quite good. I can make people smile and feel happy."
The four hand-signed pieces can be purchased individually or as a complete set. "Saturday Night" depicts a technicolour piano rocker performing Elton John's signature leg kick, while "Sausage Tree" captures a family countryside drive with his children.
Elton John touring memories
Connolly fondly recalls supporting Elton John on his 1976 US tour, particularly the moment when the piano legend back-heeled his stool off stage. "The roadies all dived so that it didn't break," Connolly remembered.
"I saw Elton lately and he was better than I've ever seen him," he added. "He's an amazing performer."
Personal and Scottish inspiration
"Sausage Tree" gets its name from Connolly's young daughter, who coined the term during a family drive when they discovered plants with sausage-shaped seed pods. The artwork explores how children's curious minds understand the world around them.
"Sunburned" features a sun-scorched Scotsman wearing Connolly's own tartan design, inspired by his famous stand-up routine about Scottish people's relationship with sunshine. "I'm actually pale blue, it takes me a week of sunbathing to turn white," remains one of his most memorable comedy moments.
The final piece, "Fly Away Peter," shows a multicoloured figure surrounded by untethered birds, reflecting Connolly's unique sense of humour that defies simple description.
Artistic renaissance continues
According to Herald Scotland, Connolly began his artistic journey in 2007 and has built a strong reputation as a visual artist since retiring from comedy in 2018. His transition from comedy legend to accomplished artist demonstrates his continued creative output at age 82.
The new collection launches at 8am on Friday, August 22, available at castlefineart.com and Castle Fine Art's nationwide UK galleries. Connolly's storytelling ability continues to forge deep connections with fans and collectors across different artistic mediums.
Sources used: "Daily Record", "Herald Scotland" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
