Description
Artist: Denny Dent
Title: Ballerina Duet
Medium: Original Oil Painting on Paper
Size: 69” x 53”
Year: C. 1994
Inscription: Signed on bottom front; Stamped with hand notations
Authenticity: Denny Dent Certificate of Authenticity
Denny Dent’s "Ballerina Duet" is a captivating original oil painting on paper, showcasing the artist's characteristic energy and bold expression. Measuring an impressive 69 inches tall by 53 inches wide, the artwork commands attention with its monumental size and striking composition. Dent’s signature dynamic brushwork and vivid use of color are on full display in this evocative depiction of two ballet dancers mid-performance.
Set against a dramatic black background, the dancers’ forms are rendered in vibrant shades of sky blue, which contrast beautifully with swirling accents of white. This interplay of color and movement captures the grace, strength, and fluidity of the dancers, evoking the energy and passion of the performance. Unlike many of Dent’s works that immortalize celebrities, the figures in this piece are unnamed.
What makes this piece particularly intriguing is its connection to Dent’s live painting performances. Hand markings on the artwork indicate its use during an actual rehearsal, accompanied by a note that reads: “Undersized sketch too small for A/B performance, for rehearsal only.” This rare insight into the artist’s process adds a layer of historical and creative significance, making the work a testament to Dent’s innovative approach to art-making.
Denny Dent's original "Ballerina Duet" painting is currently unframed. The photo showing the frame is a mockup of a frame and what it would look like framed. If you would like the piece framed we can work with our local framer at our discounted price to pick out the perfect frame for your home.
While the painting does feature a tear at the bottom, reinforced with tape on the back, this condition flaw is common due to the thin paper Dent frequently used. Such imperfections speak to the raw, unfiltered nature of his artistic process, where spontaneity and immediacy were key. Accompanied by a Denny Dent Certificate of Authenticity, "Ballerina Duet" is a striking example of the artist’s ability to capture movement and emotion. Its monumental size, vibrant palette, and connection to Dent’s live performances make it an exceptional piece for collectors and admirers of his work.
About Denny Dent
Denny Dent occupies a singular place in the art world, celebrated not only for the striking visual impact of his paintings but also for the electrifying performance process behind their creation. Known for his vivid celebrity portraits, Dent’s works are distinguished by their bold use of color, dynamic energy, and strategic negative space. His unique style of live painting, famously dubbed the "Two-Fisted Art Attack," elevated speed painting into a riveting form of performance art, captivating audiences worldwide with both the creative journey and the resulting masterpiece.
Born in 1948 in Oakland, California, Dent's early life was shaped by financial hardship and a restless pursuit of artistic expression. After leaving high school during his sophomore year, he sustained himself by selling his art, demonstrating an entrepreneurial spirit that would later define his career. His artistic breakthrough came in 1980 during a Nevada radio station’s memorial for John Lennon. It was here that Dent unveiled his signature performance style: using both hands simultaneously, he painted what initially appeared as abstract chaos, only for the image of John Lennon to emerge with breathtaking clarity. The audience was left spellbound by the process, marking the beginning of Dent’s rise as a trailblazing performance artist.
From that point forward, Denny Dent’s reputation as a fast-painting performance artist soared. He achieved significant acclaim, even opening for iconic bands such as Steppenwolf, seamlessly merging music and art into unforgettable experiences. Over time, he expanded his repertoire to include classical figures, painting to the accompaniment of symphonies that reflected the subjects' historical significance.
Dent’s portfolio of celebrity portraits is both extensive and diverse, encompassing cultural icons such as John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Elvis Presley, and Pope John Paul II, alongside contemporary figures like Rudy Giuliani. His ability to complete a painting in under 10 minutes, paired with carefully curated musical accompaniments, created a multisensory experience that resonated deeply with audiences. Each performance was a celebration of his subjects’ legacy and a testament to his unparalleled artistic and theatrical skill.
Throughout his career, Denny Dent redefined the boundaries between art and performance, leaving an indelible mark on both fields. His work continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of creativity to transcend traditional forms and connect with audiences on an immediate and emotional level.