UB40 founding member Brian Travers is set to take the stage in September, as he gets ready to talk art and rock band antics at a special event. Hosted by famed music journalist, Graham Young, guests will enjoy an intimate and candid evening with Brian as special guest to hear about life in the band and why he’s finally revealed his second talent.
‘In conversation with Brian Travers’ will take place on Thursday 15 September, and give music fans the opportunity to hear his own account about how and why UB40 started, and what it’s like preparing for a new worldwide tour. This intimate event will give you the chance to hear never-before-told stories from band life, as Brian answers questions candidly.
In addition, Brian will also talk about his second passion… abstract art. Last month saw the installation of Brian’s latest work at Malmaison Birmingham, with guests and visitors to the hotel being treated to an exclusive glimpse of the chart-topper’s newest compositions. The main feature of the exhibition is an exclusive piece: ‘The Malmaison Installation of 8 UV monkeys’ (pictured), which is inspired by Brian’s passion for the natural world. The collection also showcases pieces motivated by his time spent touring with global superstars, UB40.
Commenting on the event, Brian said:
“I don’t think I’ll ever get used to being centre stage, having spent so many years as part of a band, but I promise guests an unforgettable night! As a band, UB40 had more than 40 Top 30 singles, sold over 140 million albums worldwide and toured the world – and we’re back on the road again – so I’ve got lots of stories of ‘band life’ to share. If you’re a UB40 fan, I know you’ll love hearing about our antics on the road. I’ve been overwhelmed by the support for my artwork too; it’s a passion that I’d kept relatively well-hidden but making the leap and showing people my vision is something that I love, and the team at Malmaison really have been key to that. On the night, I will also unveil my latest collection of work, which I hope people will love. Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m an honest guy and I promise to make the evening as funny, interesting and eye-opening as I can. I hope you’ll all join us on 15 September.”
Self-taught sax player, Brian, is now finally fulfilling his artistic potential after over four decades of keeping his talent under wraps. He made his debut into the art world in September of last year, with his first exhibition filling the entirety of Harborne’s independent Havill and Travis gallery. Having been described as a versatile painter, Brian is starting to create a real stir in the art world, despite still dedicating six months of his year to touring the globe. With abstract art his forte, Brian immerses himself in creating pieces of artwork that aim to provoke thought from its audience. During the Parkinson-style event, guests will get to see his brand new work, which will go on display exclusively at Malmaison.
Tickets for the event cost £90 and include a welcome drink and three course meal. There are also VIP tickets available for £120, which include seating right by the stage, an exclusive t-shirt, the chance to ask Brian a question, and the opportunity to meet the man himself during the dinner.
To book, email events.birmingham@malmaison.com or call 0844 693 0651. To see more of Brian’s work, visit www.briantraversartstudio.com.