In this painting not only do I want to show the expression on the players faces, but also a bit of humour. The crowd shows some folks are right in the game and others are just happy to be there.  Of course the game was one of many " Battles of Alberta " games. That being Wayne Gretzky and Jari Kurri are observing an altercation that I know Esa Tikkanen had something to do with. When the trio played on the ice together the intensity on the game grew to a higher level. They showed their unique talents for the world to enjoy. They were " Magnificent".

 

This piece was signed by Wayne on February 22, 1999 after the New York Rangers defeated the Calgary Flames.

With the help my Mike Franco - sales director of the Calgary Flames I was allowed access to the player area concourse.

I remember finding out that I got the permission about a month before Wayne and the Rangers came to Calgary. I was so pumped and so excited that I would have the opportunity to meet and talk to Wayne freaken Gretzky!

I rehearsed everything that I was going to say to him. I had my business card and a letter to Wayne stating my appreciation of him signing my painting. 

On game day, I went picked up a friend of mine Lloyd Butt ( Brother to TV fame Corner Gas Brent Butt ). Lloyd and I watched what was Wayne's last game in Calgary. After the game we met up with Mike Franco and he lead us down to where the players concourse was. As soon as we opened the main doors to the concourse there was wow sensation. There must have been a thousand people waiting for Wayne to come out. Then Mike suggested we wait outside by the Rangers Bus. Ok... so we sneaked to the outside and we were greeted with about the same amount of people waiting in the cold for a chance to see Wayne.

Lloyd suggested we move to the front, I though that might be easier said than done.  But we managed to get ourselves right up front once people seen the painting. We had people getting their pictures with the painting. That was kinda cool.

 when Wayne finally came out  and started to sign autographs. Anyway

 

I remember Wayne looking over to where I was and told his body guard to grab my painting. I gave the body guard my painting and the envelope and said it was for Wayne. Wayne gave me the big smile and thumbs up. My painting returned to me signed by one of this worlds hockey super star.

 

I never got the chance to talk or shake his hand. It was so real that in one instance I was excited to have the piece signed but on the other hand I had so many question, and it didn't materialized. It's one of those things I guess.

 

If you have any questions on the this or any other paintings please click 'contact' and we will be happy to provide you with any information we can.

 

Thank you and I really appreciate your visit. I hope you enjoy viewing and reading about " The Magnificent Trio "

 

Joe Versikaitis

 

Reference photos taken by Glenn James - Getty Images. Glenn James Photography

All works are under the Canadian Copyrights Law. Any reproduction in part or whole without the written consent is strictly prohibited