Jimi Hendrix's hand-painted 1967 Flying V is a mythical instrument. Purchased in 1967 and used on tour in Europe during 1967 and 1968, the guitar-with its swirling psychedelic designs-highlights the spirit of the times and showcases Jimi's unique artistic expression. The entire instrument emanates a feeling of warmth and love.

Meticulously recreating Jimi's guitar has been a labor of love for us as well. Originally painted with what appears to be nail polish, we have used materials which reproduce the same sense of depth and texture. But this is a Gibson Custom guitar, so the materials and hardware are faithful reproductions of the original. The result is an instrument with unsurpassed playability and classic tone. The Jimi Hendrix Psychedelic Flying V is an original work of art that you can beautifully display or proudly play.

Come feel the love.

Letter From The Artist
In brainstorming sessions with the folks at the Custom Shop, we tried to imagine the conditions under which Hendrix created this artwork. He was probably on the road, using whatever was at hand for paint. It could have been poster paint, nail polish, acrylics, or hobby enamels. We will never know.

It was done quickly and with confidence -- a direct, immediate expression of what he was feeling at the moment. I remember thinking that if someone handed me a guitar to paint I would never have come up with the images that Jimi painted. They were totally personal and came directly from his spirit: hearts, flowers,… read more leaves, kissing lips, and of course, "love drops."

There's no question that you can feel Jimi's personal expression in the work. When he played this guitar, it must have dropped jaws twice -- sonically and visually!

Bruce Kunkel
December, 2005 read less