Legendary songwriter bought portrait, without the artist realising who he was.
A local Northern Ireland artist has enjoyed two unforgettable celebrity encounters in just a matter of months, including a visit from music legend Bob Dylan – without realising!
Derry-based painter and illustrator Michael McLaughlin was manning his stall at Belfast’s Christmas Market in November last year when an unassuming visitor stopped by. Unbeknown to Michael, or anyone nearby, the visitor was none other than Bob Dylan.
Michael’s portrait artwork features stars from the world of music, film, television and sport so he’s always surrounded by famous faces.
But when a man quietly purchased a portrait of Bob Dylan, Michael never suspected it was the man himself. Dressed in his trademark coat and hat, and keeping a low profile, the iconic singer-songwriter didn’t reveal his identity and went completely unrecognised by both the artist and members of the public at the time.
It was only later, after speaking with staff at Belfast Waterfront Hall, that Michael discovered he had unknowingly met one of the most influential musicians of all time – and that Dylan had bought one of his artworks.
Artist Michael McLaughlin said:
When I was told Bob Dylan had bought a portrait of himself and that I hadn’t recognised him, I couldn’t believe it.
"I’m a massive fan and had been lucky enough to see him perform at the Waterfront during his visit. To think he had stood right there and I didn’t realise, my jaw just dropped.”
Three months later, the Waterfront Hall team ensured Michael wouldn’t miss out on another once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet two more of his heroes.
A devoted fan of The Sopranos, Michael had created striking portraits of actors Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa, known for their iconic roles as Christopher Moltisanti and Bobby Bacala. After purchasing tickets to the sold-out Talking Sopranos Live event at the Waterfront Hall, Michael was invited to meet the pair following their in-conversation show.
The actors were presented with the portraits, giving Michael the chance to meet the stars whose characters inspired his artwork.
Michael added:
“I’ve loved The Sopranos for years and often create portraits of people I admire, so meeting Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa and giving them their portraits was incredible. After the Bob Dylan surprise, it feels surreal that I’ve now met three of my heroes in such a short time.”
Despite missing his chance to realise who Bob Dylan was at the time, Michael says the experience, and his recent Sopranos encounter, have provided unforgettable moments in his artistic journey.
Rob McConnell, Chief Executive of the Waterfront Hall, Ulster Hall and ICC Belfast said,
We often hear people talk about life-changing or life-affirming moments, gigs and events in our venues when they say, ‘I was there when..’ but for Michael, he was there and he didn’t even realise!
"It’s both amazing and gutting at the same time. We’re thrilled he was able to meet the stars of the Sopranos to take some of the sting out of his near-miss. Now we’re all wondering where Bob Dylan has chosen to hang Michael’s painting!”
Michael regularly sells his work at St George’s Market in Belfast and at events across Northern Ireland, building a growing following for his distinctive portrait style.
