Artist’s portrait of Ken Dodd to hang in new Floral Pavilion

Nov 26 2008 by Carrie Catterall, Birkenhead News

ken dodd

A TALENTED Wirral artist will donate her portrait of Ken Dodd to the new Floral Pavilion when it opens in December.

Pamela Storey Johnson, 51, formerly of Heswall, has had her work published in many forms including children’s book illustration, gallery work and textile and jigsaw designs.

She designed the front cover of the Radio Times in 2004 and the front of the TV Times for the last two years.

The former West Kirby Grammar School student started her career as a commercial illustrator 25 years ago and now lives in Hertfordshire.

Her love for Wirral has, however, remained and the memories of seeing Ken Dodd in the New Brighton theatre urged her to paint a picture of him.

The mother of two said: “A couple of years ago I thought it would be lovely to paint my own picture of the entertainer as I remember enjoying his shows so much as a child.

“I saw a portrait of him in the National Gallery but he looked so serious - so I wanted mine to reflect his personality more.

“I met up with Ken Dodd a few times and finished the painting last year.

“We then decided it would be a great idea to display the art where people like to see him perform - and so we decided on the Floral Pavilion.”

As well as having his portrait on display in the state-of-the-art building, the comedy legend is set to christen its new stage with an already sold-out performance on December 13.

Theatre manager Paul Holliday said: “There are many very exciting things happening surrounding the opening of the new Floral Pavilion and this portrait is one of many.

“We are delighted with the donation and just need to find a place to hang it now.”