Musicians Wretch 32 and Lisa Maffia attend opening of Beckenham fine art gallery

PUBLISHED: 15:15 01 December 2017 | UPDATED: 17:40 01 December 2017

Beth Wyatt

Co-owners Joe Lewis and Endless with their VIP guests Wretch 32 and Lisa Maffia. Picture: ME Art Gallery

Archant

Musicians Lisa Maffia and Wretch 32 exploring the new gallery. Picture: ME Art Gallery

The musicians performed the ribbon cutting ceremony at the launch of the ME Art Gallery in Beckenham, owned by local businessman and art enthusiast Joe Lewis. London contemporary artist Endless also took part in the event.

“The ME Art Gallery brings something to the town which it has lacked for a while, a touch of high-end culture,” said Maffia.

“It’s going to bring awe and smiles to a lot of residents’ faces.”

Wretch 32 added: “Endless is a beast in the art world right now. Similar to my world, there are many fakers in his industry. But everything about this guy and his style screams realness, and that’s why he caught my eye.”

Artist and co-owner of the gallery Endless, with musician Wretch 32. Picture: ME Art Gallery

Wretch 32 and Maffia mingled with business owners and perused the artworks on display, while the former also collected a piece he commissioned from Endless on the day, a £15,000 portrait.

“As well as being a passionate art enthusiast, I am also passionate about my local community, which is why I chose to open the ME Art Gallery in Beckenham,” said co-owner Joe Lewis.

“I’m grateful to the musicians as well as the other guests who were able to take the time out of their day to join us for the launch. For the first time, the residents of Beckenham can enjoy a taste of world-class art on their doorstep.”

Mayor Kathy Bance added: “Art and culture plays a very important part in modern society and I’m pleased to see developments in this space occurring within Beckenham.

“I’m sure our local residents will be delighted with the introduction of the ME Art Gallery. I wish the owners the best of success with it.”