Previously hidden masterpieces by a founding member of The Beatles have finally made their public debut. The Liverpool Beatles Museum recently unveiled four distinct pieces by Stuart Sutcliffe, the band’s original bassist, who famously met John Lennon at art school before joining the group on their formative journey to Hamburg.

Although Sutcliffe stepped away from the music scene in 1961 to pursue his passion for painting, his promising career was cut short when he passed away just a year later at the age of 21.

These specific works were provided to the museum by 82-year-old Hereward Harrison, a longtime friend of the artist’s late sister, Pauline.

Harrison had cherished the artworks on his own walls for decades, having received them as gifts from Pauline during their half-century of friendship.

The decision to share them with the world came after a chance encounter at a party, where a guest encouraged him to reach out to the museum.

Harrison noted that Pauline, who spent her life preserving Stuart’s legacy through books and exhibitions, would have been thrilled to see his work return to his home city.

The collection offers a glimpse into Sutcliffe’s evolution, featuring a student sketch from his time in Liverpool alongside three abstract paintings produced during his stay in Germany.

While Harrison acknowledges the inevitable draw of the “Beatle” brand, he emphasizes that Sutcliffe’s true identity was rooted in his artistry rather than his brief stint as a rock star.

Now housed at Mathew Street museum, these items serve as a poignant reminder of a talent that transcended the world’s most famous band.

Photos: Peter Byrne/PA Wire