LUXE Serendipity magazine

Soap hardman Jake Wood has swapped Albert Square for the art world – and his first-ever exhibition has pulled in a star-studded crowd.

The former EastEnders favourite launched his “Icons” collection at Indelible Fine Art, with pals including Michelle Collins and Heather Peace turning out to support him at the launch.

The collection celebrates some of Britain’s most legendary names, with striking portraits of Sir David Attenborough – who marks his 100th birthday today — and wartime hero Winston Churchill unveiled as part of the exhibition.

Among the standout works is an emotional tribute to Dame Barbara Windsor, with part of the proceeds going to Dementia UK. The icon’s late husband, Scott Mitchell, attended and said that Jake did her proud.

The actor-turned-artist was joined by his wife, mum and children at the bash, with his kids taking over DJ duties to keep guests entertained while they tucked into cocktails and oysters.

Jake’s artwork blends bold portraiture with emotional storytelling. The actor recently revealed he rediscovered his love of painting during lockdown, transforming an old coal shed into a studio where he spent years developing the collection.

He told me that his passion for art first began at school before acting took over his life, but the lockdown helped him refocus and he has spent nearly four years developing the collection, drawing inspiration from figures he deeply admires, including Sinéad O’Connor and Winston Churchill.

One huge portrait of Churchill has even been blown up by Murwalls so it can live on beyond the exhibition. Jake said: “It is overwhelming really — to have my first art exhibition is a dream come true.

“Hopefully, people will come and see it, and I am so excited to have this opportunity. It’s been an amazing few years of discovery in my shed — it’s been a beautiful thing.

“Barbara was a dear friend. David Attenborough, Churchill and Sinéad O’Connor are legendary figures I have a deep admiration for.”

The “Icons” exhibition will remain on display for the next six weeks.