He’s one of the most controversial and collectible artists on the planet – as his work heads to the Maddox Gallery in London, we wonder – who is Jerkface?
New York-based street artist Jerkface may operate anonymously under a nickname that’s as witty as it is elusive, but he’s become one of the most collectible contemporary artists on the planet. His latest work, Villainy, a solo show at Maddox Gallery London, presents the viewer with a cast of characters that are at once familiar and alien.
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Using composition, arrangement and nostalgia, Villainy reinvents iconic cartoons from across the eras, fusing forms, characters and cinematic universes in an act that has established Jerkface as the ultimate “animated villain”.
Jerkface, Villainy at Maddox Gallery London, images courtesy of Maddox Gallery
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inspiration
From taking on the imagery of icons like Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh, to characters from The Simpsons and Flintstones, Jerkface draws inspiration from the vibrant color palette and bold design of the “Memphis” style, blending the unbridled dynamism of youth with the clean and contemporary aesthetic of geometric abstraction.
Villainy marks the artist’s first solo exhibition in the UK and is a uniquely immersive experience, with the artist taking over both the interior and exterior of the gallery with his signature motif: the D’ohnut from The Simpsons.
Universal
Little is known about Jerkface other than that he was born in 1982, first found success on the US East Coast and has now expanded his practice both geographically and artistically. Jerkface murals now adorn cities around the world, and he has exhibited paintings in Hong Kong, New York and beyond.
Jerkface, Villainy at Maddox Gallery London, images courtesy of Maddox Gallery
Explaining his decision to exhibit in the UK for the first time, Jerkface, who is now exclusively signed to Maddox Gallery, comments: “My work is in many ways universal and seems to have global appeal, but London, like New York, was it has always been at the top of my list to leave my mark. I’ve had a following in London from the start, so I’m really excited to take my work abroad.”
John Russo, CEO of Maddox Gallery, commented, “The development and popularity of Jerkface’s work has been phenomenal. His dedication to iconography and reinvention of characters that inspire us to feel whimsical and nostalgic has made him one of the most in-demand artists of our generation. Recreating pop culture icons and childhood favorites, he presents images that are familiar and relevant to all, which has led to unprecedented demand.”
Jerkface, Villainy at Maddox Gallery London, images courtesy of Maddox Gallery
Villainy is on view from June 24th to July 15th at Maddox Gallery, 9 Maddox St, London, W1S 2QE and online at www.maddoxgallery.com.
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