UPDATE (30 October)—Brosnan says on Instagram: "I will not be exhibiting my artwork at the SMS Art Gallery in Nottingham in December 2023. Reports that the SMS Art Gallery has been engaged to host an exhibition are false. I would never charge for a meet and greet." His spokesperson adds: "Pierce’s attorneys have contacted the gallery... [he] looks forward to having an exhibition in the UK in the future and, when the time comes, he and his team will make the announcement."
Everyone loves James Bond, the dashing, rather dated spy who has been played by a host of top-notch actors. We like Daniel Craig and Timothy Dalton (remember him?) but Pierce Brosnan also caught our eye at times. The Irish actor trained as an illustrator at Central Saint Martins art school in London in the late 1960s (who knew) and often mentions his favourite works of art and museums on social media. The Mamma Mia star is having an art moment in the UK later this year with his first solo show at SMS Art Gallery in Nottingham where, according to the gallery website, art lovers will be able to peruse Brosnan’s Van Gogh-esque works—at a price. The two-day show (8-9 December) is a paying gig with VIP experiences available at £500 (“this exclusive package includes a rare opportunity for a personal meet and greet with Mr. Pierce Brosnan”). “Standard admission” costs £150—and what do you get for shelling out this handsome sum? “For those who wish to share the same venue as Mr Brosnan during this momentous occasion, the standard ticket offers an exceptional chance to be a part of the immersive experience.” If you’re cash-strapped, “general admission” tickets cost £15, a price that might leave you shaken (not stirred).