Ronnie Wood has opened up about his latest creative endeavor, Ronnie Wood: The Jimi Hendrix Portraits, an exhibition currently hosted at the Handel Hendrix House museum in Mayfair. The collection features a series of paintings and sketches that capture the essence of the legendary guitarist, including two previously unseen original portraits. For Wood, the project is a deeply personal tribute to a friend he first met upon arriving in London in 1966, long before Hendrix became a global icon.
Reflecting on a Musical Icon
Wood’s connection to Hendrix goes beyond mere admiration; the two were once housemates in Holland Park. Reflecting on their time together, Wood recalls a side of Hendrix that remained hidden from the public eye. "He was a very personalised figure and almost a recluse in his private life," Wood shared. "He was very shy, and he didn’t like the way he sang either." Wood often encouraged Hendrix to embrace his unique vocal style, reminding him that his singing perfectly complemented his revolutionary guitar playing.
Looking Ahead with The Rolling Stones
While Wood is currently immersed in his own musical projects, including his Ammo band, he remains steadfast in his commitment to The Rolling Stones. When asked about the possibility of a future tour, Wood expressed his unwavering readiness. "When my compadres say, ‘Let’s go’, I’ll be ready," he stated. He acknowledged the differing levels of enthusiasm within the band, noting that while Mick Jagger is eager to hit the road, Keith Richards has been more hesitant. Despite this, Wood remains optimistic about the prospect of performing live again, emphasizing that the band needs to be a "full unit" to truly succeed.
Beyond the Stones, Wood is also looking toward a major exhibition in Tübingen, Germany, this November, which will showcase over 100 of his original paintings and sculptures. As for the long-rumored Faces reunion, Wood noted that while he and Rod Stewart are currently focused on their respective solo tours, the door remains open for future collaboration.
The Ronnie Wood: The Jimi Hendrix Portraits exhibition is open now at the Handel Hendrix House museum until April 11, 2027.