Artworks and memorabilia from Bond movies are now part of an exhibition
The wait is almost over for James Bond fans, with Spectre slowly inching towards a release. Even as the debate on who should replace Daniel Craig rages on, the franchise has turned 53. And, to celebrate the milestone, an exhibition of Bond memorabilia is being organised by the Osian’s Archive and Library Collection.
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Goldfinger by Robert Brownjohn: This Robert Brownjohn artwork for Goldfinger is considered one of the best Bond posters till date. The contoured body worked as a 3D screen and Brownjohn used it to distort the image
“This is the first time we are showcasing our James Bond collection in an exhibition,” says Neville Tuli about Shaken, But Not Stirred. It’s the 53rd anniversary of the first film of the franchise, Dr No. The exhibition will be followed by a Bond Film Festival, which is still being planned,” adds the founder chairman of Osian’s Group.
Casino Royale poster designed by Robert McGinnis: McGinnis, who also made the iconic Breakfast at Tiffany’s poster, was synonymous with Bond movies in the 1960s and 1970s
The exhibition, which has 55 pieces on display, includes a rare bust of Sean Connery specially made for Dr No, first release posters, lobby cards, and window cards.
The Japanese design for From Russia with Love
There are artworks by famous designers/ illustrators including David Chasman (Dr No), Boris Grinnson (From Russia with Love), Robert Brownjohn and Jean Mascii (Goldfinger — American and French versions), Robert McGinnis and Frank McCarthy (Thunderball); Robert McGinnis (Casino Royale and Diamonds Are Forever).
The most expensive piece of the collection is a Brownjohn original. While the first posters were action oriented, by the mid 1960s as the narratives became complex, and Bond became a sex icon, the publicity became snazzy. The first pieces Tuli acquired for his Bond collection, which took over 15 years to build, were the original artwork for Goldfinger and the bust.
The current value of these artifacts depends on the date of release, illustrator/designer, quantity produced and scarcity, along with which public and private collectors/museums are purchasing at the time. “Fifteen years ago, their price was relatively reasonable. Now, for the top quality hand-painted limited editions, one might have to cough up between $5,000 to $30,000 each.”
When: 11 AM to 7 PM
Where: Osianama at Liberty Cinema, 41-42, Marine Lines
Call: 22084521