Pete Price told Wirral artist to design Eurovision merch

Collette Collinge, from Moreton, worked as a fashion designer and then as an art teacher, teaching well-known Liverpool comedian John May.

Eight years ago, Collette took early retirement and took up painting as a hobby, but explained it "became a business".

Her artwork, which is a mixture of modern contemporary and landscape, became well-known after she published a series on the Mersey Ferries which has been picked up in the USA, Japan, Canada and Germany.

The late singer-songwriter, Gerry Marsden, was also a fan of Collette's work, with one of her paintings in the ferry series being named 'Gerry's Ferry'.

Eurovision merch available to buy (Image: Collette Collinge)

Creating the Eurovision merchandise

Speaking about her Eurovision creation, Collette said her "good friend" Liverpool presenter, Pete Price told her to do a "Eurovision ferry" piece.

She said: "Pete has interviewed me at lengths and says my work is colourful and different.

"He said to do the painting and now there is an exhibition at the Raddison RED."

Radisson RED Liverpool, on Lime Street, has set up a shop, and mini-exhibition in their foyer, giving people the chance to buy all of Collette's Eurovision merchandise. 

Pete Price and General Manager of Radisson RED, Gary with Collette's work (Image: Radisson RED Instagram)

Items include mugs, limited edition prints, mini prints which are framed, large postcards and mounted clip frame pieces.

"Rylan Clark is staying at the Raddison RED so I believe he has one of my mugs which is great", Collette said.

"I feel so honoured. I believe in the ethos that music and creativity unites us all. It's just amazing and I am overwhelmed by the response that I've had."

You can also buy Collette's merchandise at Concept Corner in New Brighton, Nicholls Ice Cream in Parkgate and Liverpool Beatles Museum on Mathew Street.

Speaking about the inspiration for the piece, Collette added: "There's a lot of merchandise out there but the thing about the painting I've done is that it encompasses everything.

"You've got the M&S arena, the wheel, the Cathedral and the run of the River Mersey, with the iconic Mersey Ferries.

"Then the little aeroplane with the flying Eurovision message at the top. I had one opportunity to encapsulate the Eurovision song contest and I think I've managed to do that."

To see Collette's work, visit https://www.collettecollingeart.com/.