When Ian Dury was an art student he was taught by the eminent British artist Peter Blake and they became firm friends. Ian went on to pursue a career in music, first of all with an eclectic bunch of musicians called Kilburn and High Roads, and then as front man for the hugely successful Ian Dury and The Blockheads. When asked why he did not pursue a career in art, he said, "I got good enough at art to realise I wasn't going to be very good."

Peter Blake and Ian maintained their friendship until Ian's death in 2000. In memory of Ian, Peter created a portrait that was used on the cover of the 2001's tribute album 'Brand New Boots and Panties' which featured Paul McCartney and Robbie Williams amongst others.