Bristol based street artist and illustrator Mr. Penfold started learning how to use a spray can aged 12 and cites airbrushing, skate graphics and his parents collection of abstract art as some of his major influences. He was one of the first artists we approached about a Pick Me Up collaboration and have been busy developing a sweatshirt, tote bag, 10 colour t-shirt. We’ll also be releasing a variable screen print edition in which each background was individually hand painted. Read on for more info as well as details about how to pre order some of the pieces ahead of the launch on Thursday.
How would you describe your style?
Abstract minimalism with influences from graffiti and skateboard graphics.
Tell us a bit about how you developed your aesthetic?
Over the years my development has come from adding new shapes and rules of composition to my work. recently I’ve become more interested in stripping the shapes back and focusing on the relationships between all the elements.
What’s your first weapon of choice when creating new work?
All I ever need is a brush, acrylic and an edding marker!
How different was the design process for your Pick Me Up print/t-shirt knowing that the final image would be interpreted as a screen print?
Well my background is in screen printing so even with my paintings I make them the same way you’d make a print. I work in layers and use masks just like you would a stencil with a screenprint.
You’ve had the opportunity to work on some really exciting projects, has anything made you consider a complete career change?
I’ve never wanted to do anything else!
And what’s been a highlight?
I’ve never wanted to do anything else! being able to paint everyday and travel will always be the highlight.
