Painting
Despite volatility, Syrian artists are painting brighter futures through the haze
After the fall — Just over a full year since the collapse of Assad’s dictatorship, the country’s political and social outlook remains fragile. But a new outlook means a blank slate, and a grassroots arts scene is blossoming. Jessie Williams meets the photographers, painters and sculptors forging a new path.
Written by: Jessie Williams
The Facebook group for terrible art in charity shops
So bad it‘s good — An online destination for the most cursed second-hand shop finds is opening up art criticism to the masses – as well as raising questions as to why we are so drawn to ‘bad’ artworks.
Written by: Serena Smith
A visual homage to the architecture of east London
Everyday monuments — From lamplit street corners to red-brick estate fronts: artist Frank Laws pays tribute to the mundane magic of the city.
Written by: Tom Usher
The artist staging romantic fantasies with clay boyfriends
Better than Tinder? — Mary Stephenson got so sick of being single that she created her own imaginary dates. Now she's using art to poke fun at society's perception of romance.
Written by: Marta Bausells
The painter turning the pain of endometriosis into art
Pain to paper — Ellie Kammer is tired of the lack of awareness about endometriosis, a life-changing and debilitating gynaecological condition that affects one in ten women. So she decided to turn her suffering into art, in the hope it will get you speaking.
Written by: Marta Bausells
The female artists taking inspiration from ancient erotic poems
Happy Valentine's Day — In 2017, there are still many parts of the world where celebrating female lust is an act of revolt in itself. These international artists find inspiration in ancient Arab poems to render radical love.
Written by: Marta Bausells
DIY legend Tim Kerr on living a creative life that transcends labels
Colouring outside the lines — As a formative influence in independent music, Big Boys founder Tim Kerr helped to develop styles varying from punk-funk to skate-rock. Yet the artist has always resisted categorisation, repeatedly asking: 'If self-expression has no boundaries, why do people keep putting labels on it?' This is the story of Kerr's journey as an artist and the responsibility that comes with it.
Written by: Erick Lyle
Meet Jack Coulter - the artist turning synesthesia into art
A neurological phenomenon on canvas — Jack Coulter sees colours in a very unique way, turning his vibrant visualisations into abstract art. His work has already been used by SOAK and has a legion of fans online.
Written by: Sam Warner
Artist Scott Albrecht focusses on the present in a world in flux
Here and Now - Amsterdam — Change is always going to happen, says Scott Albrecht, so his new show is all about embracing it as it comes.
Written by: Alex King
