Description
Artist: Denny Dent
Title: John Lennon, Night Glow
Medium: Original Oil Painting on Paper
Size: 73" x 53.5"
Year: C. 1990s
Inscription: Signed on Bottom Front, Stamped and Hand Titled Verso
Authenticity: Denny Dent Certificate of Authenticity
Denny Dent's "John Lennon, Night Glow" is a captivating tribute to one of music's most iconic figures, rendered with the signature dynamism that defines Dent's artistic legacy. Towering at an impressive 73" x 53.5", the sheer scale of this work envelops the viewer, creating a visceral, almost immersive experience.
The piece is distinguished by its masterful use of metallic paint applied against a deep black background. The shimmering metallic hues create an ethereal effect, as though the painting itself is illuminated from within. This interplay of light and dark evokes an otherworldly sensation, drawing viewers into a realm where Lennon's legendary persona seems to radiate timelessly. Dent's characteristic energy is palpable in the strokes and textures, capturing both the intensity and mystery of Lennon's enduring spirit. Dent is best known for his use of bright colors, and the use of metallic paint to create a more refined experience is a noteworthy departure.
Beyond its visual impact, "John Lennon, Night Glow" exemplifies Dent's revolutionary approach to performance art, where each painting was created live in front of audiences, often in mere minutes. The spontaneity and raw energy of Dent's process are visible in the intricate details of this work, giving it a kinetic vitality that echoes Lennon's bold creativity and lasting influence.
Signed prominently on the bottom front and stamped with authenticity, this piece represents a powerful convergence of music and art. The accompanying certificate of authenticity further underscores its significance within Dent's body of work.
Denny Dent's original John Lennon 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.
A rare and monumental piece, "John Lennon, Night Glow" is more than just a painting—it is an homage to a cultural icon, rendered with light, movement, and an almost cosmic intensity that lingers in the imagination long after viewing.
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.