Artists Sequin Kay and Gerry Kinch have come together for a unique collaboration. Combining classical portraiture and contemporary crystal-art, The Icons Collection celebrates iconic female figures. This contemporary ‘chiaroscuro’ pays homage to the ‘light and dark’ of each icon: their personal struggles and their public limelight. The Art Collector asked both artists about this partnership and their own artistic journeys.
Sequin Kay: Can you tell us about The Icons Collection—why did you choose these particular icons?
These four female icons were chosen intuitively and the inspiration came from their personal stories of strength; inner struggles and how they overcame adversity in their personal and professional lives. Gerry and I found their stories incredibly captivating and personally relatable. Each woman has been exposed to public challenges, yet their power and vulnerability resonate deeply with us, especially Diana and Veronica Lake. The images captured their sensuality, power, and femininity, which emotionally drew us to create these works.
Sequin Kay: Do you plan to include male icons in future collections, especially with increased awareness of male mental health?
Yes, Gerry and I are excited to explore male icons who have contributed to culture globally. This collection is just the beginning, and we’re open to different characters and aspects of iconography, both male and female.
Sequin Kay: Should art carry a message or be political, or remain open to interpretation?
Art for me is about freedom and expression, whether political or not; carrying a message intentionally or not, art needs space to allow its viewers also to feel free. Most historical or contemporary art has layers that often communicate something meaningful for the artist or for the time in which is was created. It is important for myself that art remains open to interpretation, allowing people to connect with it in their own way. There has to be no limitations for art and creativity to have the ability to challenge the mind, heart, and soul, offering a unique perspective to each observer.
Sequin Kay: Who are your personal idols/icons?
My icons include Emily Dickinson, Mary Oliver, Frida Kahlo, Cleopatra, Nefertiti, and Gandhi. Each of them has left a profound impact through their creativity, leadership, or message. Artists like Julio Le Parc and Gerhard Richter also inspire me with their visionary work. There are countless influences around me, from writers like Joan Didion to filmmakers like Ken Russell, whose concepts and cinematography I deeply revere.
Sequin Kay: How has classical training influenced you as an artist?
Classical training, particularly at the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts, has expanded my technical skills, giving me a broader vision of how I fit into the art world. It has pushed me to strive for precision, professionalism, and to constantly question my work. Training also taught me that there is no right or wrong in art, only the technical aspects that bring ideas to life. Art training has been a mind-opener that has enriched my artistic journey.
Sequin Kay: Can you describe the methodology behind this collection and how you developed it?
This collection uses hand-setting, which I’ve practiced for a long time. Working with Gerry’s impressionist paintings required me to adapt my method, blending crystals with the tonal values of the artwork. It was a more delicate process, demanding long studio hours and an intense focus on detail, especially with the use of finer crystals. It shifted my usual approach, making this collection one of my most challenging yet rewarding.
Sequin Kay: What mediums have been the most rewarding for you?
All mediums are rewarding in their own way, whether it’s crystal work or geometric art. Each allows me to access different parts of myself and brings immense joy. This Icons Collection has been particularly challenging, but every piece I create is a reward, simply because I have this gift of time to spend in the studio doing what I love.
Sequin Kay: Tell us about the art collections you’re developing in Ibiza and London. Are they exclusively your works?
In Ibiza, I’m working on a Goddess Collection, including a Swarovski crystal series focused on the theme of guardianship, these sculptures depict the goddess Tanit and these artworks reflect upon the female archetype of protection. Additionally, I’m designing bespoke geometric light-up pieces for clients’ homes in Ibiza and in London and also completing a Swarovski crystal Ibiza landscape with Mark Illuminati. These projects, whether painting or illustrations, are deeply personal and tailored for each client.
Gerry Kinch: Can you explain your choice of icons for The Icons Collection?
Cleopatra, as portrayed by Elizabeth Taylor, was the catalyst—it felt like Cleopatra came to us, asking to be painted. The themes of female empowerment resonated with the times, and we felt compelled to explore powerful women like Princess Diana and Veronica Lake, each of whom embodies resilience and grace. These icons symbolise strength, adversity, and empowerment.
Gerry Kinch: Will you include male icons in future collections?
Absolutely. Though we’re still catching our breath after completing these pieces for October, our intention is to explore male icons next. There’s a long journey ahead, and we’re eager to venture down different paths.
Gerry Kinch: Should art carry a message or be open to interpretation?
Art must provoke thought. Whether people love or hate it, the key is to evoke an emotional response. Art’s purpose is to make people think and interpret it in their own way. It doesn’t need to be political or religious but should leave a lasting impression.
Gerry Kinch: Who are your personal idols/icons?
Jesus is one of my personal icons—not in a religious sense, but for the positive message he conveyed. I’m also inspired by figures like Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Caravaggio, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Shakespeare. Each has left an indelible mark on their fields.
Gerry Kinch: How did this collaboration come to be?
I met Sequin over 10 years ago in a studio, and she instantly fascinated me. She was adorned with Swarovski crystals, almost like a walking work of art. Our collaboration felt destined, and when the opportunity came, everything aligned perfectly. We’ve only just begun, with so many ideas still to explore.
Gerry Kinch: Can you share your background as an artist?
Painting has been a lifelong passion. I started with pub signs and gradually honed my skills. After personal hardships, like losing my son, art became a sanctuary for me, offering solace and meditation. It’s been an incredible journey, and I feel fortunate to have turned my passion into a lifelong career.
Gerry Kinch: Has this collaboration inspired you to explore new mediums?
Definitely. I’ve always loved the mystical and religious overtones in my work. I’ve explored gilding and even had the honour of working on the British Museum’s Asian room. Though I’ve dabbled in signwriting, painting remains my true passion. While modern tools like AI and Photoshop are becoming prevalent, I hold onto the traditional methods of painting, which I find irreplaceable.
Gerry Kinch: What makes art timeless?
Art is timeless because it doesn’t need to be switched on—it just exists, speaking to those who view it. From cave paintings to modern art, the stories and emotions conveyed through art will continue to resonate with people for generations.
Gerry Kinch: The fusion of classical and contemporary art is rare in visual arts. Is this a trend you want to continue?
Absolutely. Sequin and I have blended traditional oil painting with Swarovski crystal embellishments, and it works beautifully. Like in music, where genres merge, our collaboration pushes boundaries and creates something exciting and new. We’ve only scratched the surface of what’s possible.
