From Renaissance to Artistic Exclusivity

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How a Chance Encounter with an Art Forger Sparked a Modern Art Revival

The Journey of a Versatile Entrepreneur

Darren Bolger is widely recognised for his pioneering spirit and notable achievements in entrepreneurship, charitable initiatives, and community development. However, behind these business triumphs lies a deep-rooted fascination with the visual arts—a passion that, for many years, was set aside as Bolger poured his energy into his family and commercial pursuits. His love for painting remained dormant, waiting to be reignited.

An Extraordinary Meeting with an Art Forger

The course of Bolger’s artistic life changed dramatically following an unexpected meeting with a celebrated art forger. This forger, famed for his uncanny ability to replicate the works of iconic artists such as Jackson Pollock, Cézanne, and Monet, had achieved both acclaim and notoriety—ultimately resulting in a stint in prison. His mastery in capturing the vibrancy and chaotic energy of Pollock’s abstract expressionism proved to be a profound source of inspiration for Bolger.

Reigniting a Passion for Modern Art

Bolger was struck by the forger’s unwavering dedication to his craft and the complex questions the encounter posed about authenticity in art. This pivotal moment reignited Bolger’s enthusiasm for painting and encouraged him to revisit his own creative ambitions. Deeply influenced by Pollock’s spontaneous techniques and emotive force, Bolger immersed himself in modern art, embracing abstraction and expressive gestures as the foundation of his renewed artistic practice.

The Birth of a Contemporary Vision

In 2018, while living in Riverside Quarter, Wandsworth, Bolger embarked on the creation of his first painting inspired by Pollock’s signature style. This period also marked the inception of The Haurun Club—a venture that quickly established itself as a nexus for collaboration among trusted individuals and leading brands. The union of Bolger’s revitalised artistic vision and entrepreneurial flair gave rise to a communal space devoted to creativity, dialogue, and forward-thinking growth.

Bolger’s unique approach to painting involves rotating each canvas 90 degrees anticlockwise before signing it by pressing his fingers into the paint, creating a distinctive three-pronged tiara. This gesture is a heartfelt homage to his daughter, with his fingerprints permanently embedded in the work as a symbol of connection and legacy.

The Power of Unexpected Inspiration

Darren Bolger’s story underlines the transformative potential of inspiration, particularly when it emerges from the most unlikely sources. The journey of the artist-forger—with all its brilliance and controversy—became the catalyst that led Bolger back to his artistic roots, reshaping his relationship with art. Through his artwork and the foundation of The Haurun Club, Bolger remains a passionate advocate for the progress of modern art, urging others to embrace innovation and authenticity in their own creative journeys.

Looking Ahead: A Legacy in the Making

From boardrooms and communities to the artist’s canvas, Darren Bolger epitomises resilience, adaptability, and the courage to pursue one’s passions. His artistic revival, sparked by a remarkable encounter, showcases the inseparable link between creativity and personal growth. As Bolger’s journey unfolds, his impact on modern art—and the vibrant community he cultivates—serves as a compelling reminder that genuine artistic expression knows no boundaries.

Looking to the future, Bolger intends to resume painting in 2026, with his private collection remaining unavailable until after his passing. However, he plans to produce up to 100 numbered works exclusively for Board Members of The Haurun Club, available from membership season ss27.

Of the five paintings created during Bolger’s 2018 renaissance, three were acrylic works on 1m-squared canvases, and two were executed in portrait format. One of the square pieces was gifted to his nephews, who cherished and learned from its vivid colours, though sadly it was later irreparably damaged and discarded. 

Bolger will continue to work with acrylic on 1m square canvases for his ss27 Haurun collection, while his private collection may evolve to include a broader repertoire. These works will be catalogued and showcased at select events, adding an element of intrigue and anticipation for admirers of his art.

Looking ahead, Bolger plans to return to painting in 2026. His private collection will remain inaccessible to the public until after his passing. Nonetheless, he intends to create up to 100 numbered pieces exclusively for Board Members of The Haurun Club, which will become available starting from the membership season ss26.

During Bolger’s artistic resurgence in 2018, he produced five paintings: three were acrylic works on 1-metre square canvases, and two were executed in portrait orientation. One of the square canvases was given to his nephews, who treasured its vibrant colours and drew inspiration from it. Unfortunately, this piece was irreparably damaged and ultimately discarded.

For his ss26 Haurun collection, Bolger will continue using acrylics on 1-metre square canvases, while his private collection may expand to feature a wider range of styles and formats. These new works will be catalogued and displayed at select events, heightening the sense of anticipation and intrigue among his admirers.

The 100 Board Members of The Haurun Club as of 23 May 2027 will have primary access to the ss26 Haurun Works. Each piece will be unveiled at private events and will be housed in galleries across the world. All works will be listed in a catalogue, a copy of which will be presented to every Board Member. While the catalogue will not be reproduced in print, an online version will remain accessible.

During the Board Members’ ss26 Membership season, a special event will be organised, where the allocation of works will be determined randomly, with Board Members’ names drawn from a hat and matched to the available pieces. The allocation will begin with number 100 and count down to 1, adding a sense of excitement and anticipation for those eager to obtain one of these exclusive numbered works.

Each purchaser of an artwork will receive a signed book detailing the events surrounding both the encounter with the Art Forger and the founding of The Haurun Club, to accompany the limited-edition pieces.