In March (2007) I was asked to illustrate the front cover of Mojo magazine. It was to celebrate the feature; '100 Records That Changed The World' and would feature rock artists in the listing. Mojo asked me to base my illustration on the classic Jimi Hendrix album cover; 'Axis, Bold As Love' which has been around now since 1967 I believe. There was little time to illustrate the job and I got started straight away to meet the deadline.

At this point I had no idea that the cover concept would be upsetting or disrespectful in any way. Had I known this I would have suggested an alternative illustration route. The magazine came out in May. About a month later I received a rather disturbing and threatening email alerting me to the fact that the cover image may be deemed inappropriate. I contacted the magazine and they confirmed that they had received complaints from members of the Hindu community. At this point I asked the magazine if they would print an apology on my behalf but as it was a rather sensitive issue I think they decided to leave things be.

I therefore take this opportunity to personally apologise to all that may have been offended by this illustration. It was never my intention for it to do so. I should have taken the time to do some background research, but alas time was short and as the Hendrix 'Axis' cover had been around for 30 years I had no idea that there would be a problem.

I have now destroyed the original digital artwork as a mark of respect, but I cannot do anything about copies taken from the cover itself, or further circulation of these.
Again, my sincere apologies.

 Jeff Cummins   2007