Events offering entry into the art world of Billy Connolly, to be held in Birmingham

Events that offer an insight into the world of Sir Billy Connolly through a new short film will take place in the UK later this month.

The events will feature short films in which the comedian and artist, affectionately known as The Big Yin, will discuss his artwork and will begin on May 16.

It will feature a preview of Sir Billy’s latest sculpture and artwork, titled And On Monday, God Made The World, ahead of its worldwide release on May 24, and will also unlock exclusive access to preview to a series of four limited editions.

Events will take place in Nottingham and Manchester on May 16; Newcastle, Birmingham and Bristol on May 18; and in London on May 25.

The six events will be hosted by Castle Fine Art, which says the films offer a glimpse into the world of the comedian and his artistic influences.

His newest sculpture and painting depicts an angelic winged being creating the world using welding equipment.

Complete with a pair of wings, a welding mask and a flashlight, it harkens back to Sir Billy’s days spent working in the shipyards.

Sir Billy said: “This new release, And On Monday, God Made The World, is a big statement.

“It’s a welder, I made it to remember my past. Welders are often in this position; it was just a pencil drawing when I first did it.

“The weld is that lead color, but when I colored it, he became a cheerful welder in the world.”

He added: “There’s a big part of me that’s still a welder. I went from welding, because I was playing the banjo and playing in popular clubs and I was pretty popular.

“So I decided to quit my job and do this for a living. I said I’ll give it three months, and if it works, if it doesn’t, I’ll go back to welding.

“Then shortly after I read ‘Billy Connolly the Comedian’ in the paper and I thought I had it.”

Managing Director of Castle Fine Art, Ian Weatherby-Blythe, said: “These nationwide events provide an incredible opportunity to view these special films and step into the world of Billy that we are so lucky to be a part of.

“Billy is one of Castle Fine Art’s close collaborators and these films give an insight into our regular meetings with him.

“Billy wanted to introduce event attendees to the new series of four signed limited editions, these pieces will not be available online at Castle Fine Art.”

Anyone interested in participating in an event should contact Castle Fine Art at [email protected]