A stunning portrait of Jimi Hendrix has been created ahead of the release of his posthumous album, People Hell and Angels, The Telegraph reports. The artwork, constructed from 4,000 Fender plectrums, will go on public display today at a pop up store on Ganton Street, West London. It was created by Manchester-based artist Ed Chapman, who said “I was totally thrilled when I was called by Fender and asked to create my version of Jimi Hendrix's iconic image and it's a real honour… Jimi's sister. Janie L. Hendrix, will see it at the store and I'd love to hear her thoughts on the portrait.”

Measuring 105 x 80 cm, the new artwork marked a change in medium for Chapman. “I usually work in ceramic tile, but plectrums are a great medium to create art and I hope they are a fitting tribute to an amazing musician.” Chapman is known within the art world for his ground-breaking mosaic work. He has created portraits from a variety of materials in the past, including coins, glass, sugar cubes and mobile phones. His work has been displayed and sold around the world.

Jimi Hendrix died in 1970 at the age of 27. This latest album of studio material, People Hell and Angels, contains 12 tracks that were recorded as Hendrix collated material for the follow-up to Electric Ladyland. They have not been released until now. 

Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix, centre.