Despite the generational difference, epochal 1940s and 50s Hollywood actress Elizabeth Taylor shared a friendship with contemporary actor and artist Johnny Depp. He described her as an "amazing woman" and "great inspiration" while Elizabeth recognised Johnny as a "cute" and "brilliant, nuanced actor with great range". In contrast to her refined and angelic persona in films such as Cleopatra, Johnny's experience of the actress's private side was full of laughter as she "sits there and cusses like a sailor". It is this intimate portrayal of an icon that characterises Johnny's Friends & Heroes collection and this artwork sees the artist portray her as a confident and timeless heroine with strength of character uncompromised by youth or age.

Johnny’s debut collection Friends & Heroes sees him focus on people he has known well, and who have inspired him as a person. Each image is an intimate reflection of their character in Johnny's eyes; a portrayal of how they have revealed themselves to him. Working from photographic references, each image has been stripped back to a simpler and iconic portrayal of the subject, which Johnny has then developed and energised with his characteristic freehand flourishes. You can view the full portfolio of portraits here or learn more about the artist on our blog.

In addition to being hand-signed by the artist, this limited edition artwork is embossed with Johnny Depp's iconic Bunnyman logo. Bunnyman was inspired by Johnny’s son Jack who, when he was five years old, woke from an apparent nightmare featuring the character, but was comforted by his father’s explanation. His explanation described Bunnyman as a friendly warrior between the doorway of reality and imagination. Johnny later realised the iconic figure on a large canvas and it has since come to symbolise both him and his work. Bunnyman is now being registered as a global trademark and along with Johnny’s initials, it represents an additional guarantee of authenticity beyond his handwritten signature.

Photographic reference- Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images.

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