NightClub Singers Artist Print Collection
Doug has a love of the 1920s nightclub scene and this mini-series of paintings references the female nightclub singers from the 1920s to the 1950s.
Don’t Mean A Thing. – Linocut Print
Don’t Mean A Thing, from the Nightclub Singer Mini-Series – by Doug Kemp is presented as a signed limited edition linocut print measuring 65cm x 60cm.
There are no more than ten editions of the Don’t Mean A Thing linocut print created.
The composition features green and black smoky swirls, serving as a backdrop for three prominent abstract shapes in blue, red, and pink.
These shapes symbolise the stage backdrop of a nightclub live show production, evoking a sense of vibrant energy.
The central figure, a nightclub singer with long black hair tied up and dressed in a strapless black dress adorned with deep blue highlights. Completing her ensemble, she wears long yellow opera gloves with blue cheetah spots, creating a striking contrast.
The scene transports us to the vibrant nightclubs of the 1950s, capturing the essence of that era’s entertainment and glamour.
Here we see a slightly different colour way for the original “Don’t Mean a Thing” working proof paintings. From this design, the linocut printing blocks were prepared.
Miss Red. Silkscreen Print
Miss Red, is part of the Nightclub Singer pop art Mini-Series by Doug Kemp.
This signed limited edition silk screen print measures 65cm x 60cm. The title, “Miss Red”, serves as a playful pun on “misread,” suggesting alternative motives or a potential misinterpretation of the character.
With a black background with two yellow spotlights, converging upon a central circular shape, This enigmatic figure captivates and evokes the image of a final note being sung. Her striking blood-red hair adds intensity to the scene, while her confident stance exudes allure and self-assurance.
Referencing the vibrant nightclubs of the 1950s this artwork captures the era’s pulsating atmosphere, glamour, and artistic expression.
Happy Girl V3. – Giclee Print
“Happy Girl V3,” a 61x66cm giclee print from the “Nightclub Series,” paying homage to the iconic showgirls of the 1930s and 1940s. This artwork exudes the spirit of exuberance and joy that defined the glamorous nightclub scenes of that era.
With her back turned to the viewer, the happy girl embraces the classic pose of a showgirl, casting a playful glance over her left shoulder. Her radiant smile and vivacious demeanor mirror the spirit of those dazzling performances that captivated audiences in the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Her outfit echoes the glamorous costumes that adorned the showgirls of yesteryear. The zipper halfway down the back of her leotard her adds an alluring touch.
Her striking raven hair, flowing gracefully, embodies the timeless elegance that defined the showgirl style.
A delicate blue choker graces her neck, perfectly complementing the captivating eyeshadow and serving as a subtle nod to the iconic fashion of the 1930s and 1940s showgirls.
The giclee print’s background features a yellow frame adorned with geometric patterns of circles, triangles and abstract whip lines. This dynamic backdrop transports viewers to the dazzling stage lights and lively atmosphere of the glamorous nightclubs of the era.
“Happy Girl V3” immortalizes the legacy of showgirls from the 1930s and 1940s, celebrating their timeless charm and unforgettable performances. With its blend of colours, this giclee print honours the vivacity and allure of these legendary entertainers.
Here we see a slightly different colour scheme for the Happy Girl V2 painting on canvas.
The original Happy Girl V1 was an acrylic painting on paper and was painted in the 1980s
The video featured here from ‘Babylon Berlin’, a German TV series, encompasses just about everything Doug loves about the late 1920s nightclub scene. The music, the vibe and the banana girls. Other fruits are also available.
Babylon Berlin is a German-speaking neo-noir television series and is set in the latter years of the Weimar Republic (1929).
The story follows a police inspector on assignment to dismantle an extortion ring, and Charlotte Ritter, police clerk by day, flapper by night, who aspires to become a police inspector herself.
