Talented sculptor Laura Lian, whose work goes on show at Montagues Gallery in Kings Langley next week, has previously created bronzes for the likes of Rachel Hunter and Sharon Osbourne among other celebrities, but when she received a call on her mobile from a collector called Bernie Ecclestone, she had no idea she was talking to the Formula One billionaire.
On calling him back she told him of the price and he seemed to pause, so she offered him a discount and to let him pay in installments. He advised her that would not be necessary and bought the piece.
That evening down the pub, she bought her friends a round of drinks telling them that she’d sold a bronze, when she mentioned the buyer’s name, the place erupted with laughter at the thought that she’d offered billionaire Bernie Ecclestone the opportunity to pay in installments.
She and Bernie have since become friends and he’s an avid collector.
For Laura, art is about much more than a price tag. She says: “Art is not just a luxury. It can lift people’s spirits and inspires people to look within.
Laura’s exhibition runs from Wednesday, Novemeber 11 at Montagues Gallery, High Street, Kings Langley. Details: 01923 263311 www.montaguesgallery.com
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