6 November 2002

As Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood swept through Los Angeles as part of the band’s 40 Licks anniversary tour. He took time. Along with some famous friends, to launch an exhibition of his paintings at a West Hollywood gallery.

The private reception at the Hamilton Selway gallery boasted a rocking guest list. Including music stars Sheryl Crowe, actress and former Aerosmith video babe Alicia Silverstone and Rod Stewart, who brought along girlfriend Penny Lancaster as his date.

Ronnie is famous for his rock portraits, including those of his fellow Rolling Stones and icons from Jimi Hendrix to Madonna ­– all of whom he counts as friends of colleagues. The LA display consists of 40 rock themed originals and limited-edition prints, including renditions of Elvis, Marvin Gaye and Jim Morrison.

The legendary guitarist, who became a household name as a rock star despite having childhood dreams of being an artist, began showing this creations in 1987 after releasing his book the Works the tome was about his life as a guitarist, but the illustrations he created showed he was also a painter at heart.