The Rolling Stones: Time on Our Side original pencil drawing

Commissioned in 2016 for a collectors anthology of live 1960s broadcasts by The Rolling Stones.  This is the first image in Matthews epic Stones trilogy; preceding 'Another Time, Another Place II' and 'Painted Black'.

In Matthews' own words:

"Firstly, I ought to point out that I chose the Stones for the role as mercenaries, because I've always considered them to be the mean and moody bad boys of rock 'n' roll; slightly aggressive and sullen, unlike the fresh-faced Beatles - no offence intended for either band!

Part one of the trilogy sees the group returning from the sacking of the city that burns behind them - Keith Richards was always a bit lax when it came to disposing of his dogends!

The one-eyed (yet "two-pupilled") elephant, complete with "brontesaurian" tail, is one they requisitioned from a herd of beasts, known for their irritability and pugnacious attitude.  This one is further exasperated by Charlie Watts' incessant drum beats. 

In the background, perched high above a rock stack, is the decaying, skeletal ship that the rapacious crew have recently embarked from."

• Full Title: 'Time on our Side' 
• Year: 2016
• Size, inclusive of mount (height x width): 490 x 828 mm (19.3 x 32.6 inches)
• Materials: graphite pencil on tracing paper