Posts by Alex Yellop

Harriet Nicholls is an acclaimed interior designer who led the redesign of our townhouse and home for more than 50 years. Known for bringing a youthful twist to classic style, Harriet creates interiors that are both elegant and relaxed - which, often, visitors to our gallery mention when experiencing her work. We recently spoke with Harriet as to the importance of art, her career and her latest developments.

Keith Haring is widely considered to be one of the most popular and influential artists of the 20th century. His deeply human, hieroglyphic style, a visual language entirely of his own, has resonated with the public and collectors for over 40 years. Bursting onto the NYC street art scene of the 1980s, Haring was an instant success who used his platform to raise awareness for social issues that were as pertinent then as they are today. Haring’s vibrant and energetic works are replete with an eerie, almost proto-human sense of basic yet profound communication - simple figures that convey such meaning. In this article we share 8 facts about Keith Haring.

Since his arrival on the art scene in the mid to late 1990s, Banksy has risen from humble Bristolian street artist to a global icon. His works, political and drenched in sardonic wit, have captured the imagination of collectors, the auction houses and the wider public. Motifs and symbols that are recognised across the world, his seminal works and stunts have become part of the cultural fabric of the 21st century. In this article, we explore why Banksy is important and his popularity.

Damien Hirst is one of the most important figures within British art. First appearing as part of the Young British Artist movement of the 1980’s along with other seminal figures such as Mark Quinn and Tracey Emin Hirst has become a household name within art. His fascination with life and death and his natural instinct as a colourist makes his artworks both highly converted and  both visually and intellectually stimulating.

One of the most influential people of the 20th century, Andy Warhol’s impact on both the art and wider world cannot be understated. From revolutionary techniques within the medium of screenprinting to the ability to turn everyday objects and images into high-art, Warhol’s legacy is very much apparent in our 21st century world. Fascinated by the concept of machisation and the industrial production of art, Warhol, conversely, was often not involved in the production of his art - even leaving the signing of works to his assistants. This departure from pre-established, traditional ways of understanding and making art naturally makes authenticating Warhol’s canon both complex and difficult. In this article we will explore how to authenticate an Andy Warhol artwork.

Knightsbridge is known for its picturesque streets, more often than not the realm of the Insta-influencers more recently, and local, residential feel. For over 57 years, Andipa have been fortunate to call the area our home. The local feel, that many of our clients say makes the area so unique and welcoming, can be found in its residents, boutiques and local businesses. One such business (that falls on our doorstep) is The Capital Hotel which is nestled in one such charming  and  quiet street. Traditional and full of classic, British-character, the hotel creates a personal feel - one that is very much in the style of Andipa. We speak with Sales & Marketing Manager Charles Roberts about “His Knightsbridge” as he shares his recommendations for a day in SW1.

Since 2006, Andipa have led the secondary Banksy market for both original prints and artworks. Curating museum exhibitions across the world , over the last 17 years in dealing in Banksy, his popularity amongst collectors and the wider public has continued to grow. In today’s article, we ask the question, why is Banksy so popular?.

Yayoi Kusama has become a global icon in recent years both within and outside of the art world. Her extraordinary career, that spans over five decades, has led her to becoming one of the world’s most popular and beloved artists. In today’s article, we look at Yayoi Kusama as one of the most important artists of the 20th century and why any collector should give thought to adding her works to their collection.

Following on from the launch of his first solo show in 14 years, the interest in Banksy both as an artist and for his artworks continues to remain strong. Recently, there has been an increase in press coverage with the broadcast of a new BBC Radio 4 show  “The Banksy Story”. The 10 part series examines the life, art and infamy of the world’s most in demand artist. In today’s article, we review each episode of the seminal series that is a must for any Banksy collector.

First aired on the 17th of July 2023 on BBC Radio 4 and online on  BBC Radio 4 the podcast is written by self-confessed “Banksy super-fan” James Pek who assures listeners he will give us the low-down on the artist and the world he inhabits. Throughout the series, Peak speaks with Banksy collectors, art dealers and an alleged associate of the Banksy camp. The enthralling series charters the sensational rise of the world’s most alluring artist. The series builds up to the burning question, who is he? But before we get to the final part we review each episode.

Banksy is a name that sends shivers down the spine of the contemporary art world. His pseudonymous identity, paradoxical ideology, and the ephemeral nature of his works inspire awe, debate, and for some of us, a deep-seated desire to collect. As a private collector of Banksy prints, I often find myself on an enthralling journey, unveiling layers of truth, rebellion, and satire encapsulated in the art of this elusive iconoclast.

Collecting Roy Lichtenstein screen prints can be a rewarding and significant endeavour for art enthusiasts. Roy Lichtenstein, an iconic figure of the Pop Art movement, revolutionised the art world with his distinctive style characterised by bold colours, comic book-inspired imagery, and the use of Ben-Day dots. In today’s article, we explore why collecting Roy Lichtenstein is not just for lovers of pop art.

Damien Hirst has, for over three decades, captivated the global artworld through his thought-provoking and provocative works.  While Hirst is widely recognised for his iconic installations and sculptures, his screen prints have also garnered significant attention from collectors and art enthusiasts for over three decades. Today’s article explores the reasons why Damien Hirst's screen prints are highly desirable and why they are worth collecting.

In the second part of our ongoing series, we look into the reasons behind adding the artists available at Andipa Editions to your collection. Satirical and subversive, socially conscious and sarcastic, Banksy’s art resonates with collectors across the globe. Indeed, his meteoric rise to fame is only eclipsed by his performances both in private sales and at auction. Whether grabbing headlines for his street works or his latest exhibitions, notoriety follows Banksy as if it were his shadow. In today’s article, we explore why as an art collector adding Banksy to your collection is a must.

Andy Warhol is renowned for his colourful, celebrity-infused screen prints that blur the line between art and commodity. Warhol's work revolutionised the art world, presenting an entirely new perspective on what could be considered art. For the art collector, the acquisition of an Andy Warhol screenprint is not only a smart investment but also a chance to own a piece of art history. In today’s article, we look into why adding Warhol to your collection is not only an aesthetic choice but can also be a lucrative one. 

David Hockney, widely considered to be one of the most influential British artists of the 20th century, has made a remarkable impact on the world of art with his vibrant landscapes, portraits, and pool scenes. His use of colour and innovative exploration of perspective are instantly recognisable and equally influential. Collecting David Hockney's prints provides an opportunity to own a piece of his artistic legacy, characterised by experimentation, progression, and a deep love for the act of observing. In today’s article we examine why as an art collector, adding Hockney to your collection is to be considered.

Art is an ever-evolving expression of human creativity, reflecting socio-cultural changes and personal perspectives. One of the most pivotal movements in the 20th century was Pop Art. Emerging during the 1950s, this art form became an integral part of Western cultural history, especially in the United States and Britain. Pop Art challenged traditional boundaries and conventions of art, embracing elements of consumer culture, celebrity, media, and popular culture. Its significance lies in its radical reshaping of what constituted art and its profound influence on subsequent movements.

Renowned anonymous street artist Banksy has captivated the world with his thought-provoking and often politically charged artwork. In one of his most intriguing series, the Tesco Soup prints, Banksy delves into the themes of consumerism, mass production, and the commodification of art in the footsteps of Andy Warhol. This article explores the captivating nature of Banksy's Tesco Soup series and the messages it conveys.

The Scottish National Gallery is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host the much-anticipated forthcoming exhibition, "Smash Hits," featuring the works of the renowned British artist Grayson Perry. With his distinctive style and thought-provoking themes, Perry has become a household name in the contemporary art world. This exhibition promises to be a spectacular showcase of his talent, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience. Let's delve into the world of Grayson Perry and explore what makes "Smash Hits" a must-see event.

Grayson Perry, a renowned British artist and social commentator, has consistently used his artistic prowess to dissect and challenge contemporary society. In his thought-provoking map, "Print for a Politician," Perry presents a visual narrative that serves as both a critique and an invitation for reflection on the state of politics. This article aims to delve into the intricacies of Perry's map, exploring its symbolism, underlying messages, and its relevance in an ever-evolving political landscape.

Yayoi Kusama, the renowned Japanese contemporary artist, is celebrated for her captivating artistic expressions that transcend boundaries and leave an indelible mark on the art world. Among her vast body of work, Kusama's flower prints hold a special place, encapsulating her unique perspective on nature's infinite beauty. Through vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and a keen sense of symmetry, Kusama's flower prints invite viewers into a world where the organic and the abstract merge seamlessly.

In the world of street art, Banksy has emerged as one of the most enigmatic and influential figures. Known for his thought-provoking and politically charged works, Banksy's art challenges societal norms and speaks to the masses. One such artwork that has captivated audiences worldwide is "Game Changer." Created during the COVID-19 pandemic, this piece carries a profound message that resonates with people during a time of uncertainty and crisis. In this article, we will delve into the context and meaning behind Banksy's "Game Changer" and explore its significance in the contemporary art landscape.

In a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding artistic achievements and contributions to the world of contemporary art, renowned British artist Grayson Perry has been knighted! Perry's unconventional and thought-provoking works have garnered international acclaim, challenging societal norms and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. This article delves into the significance of Grayson Perry's knighthood and celebrates his invaluable contributions to the arts.

"The Secret Lives of Colour" by Kassia St. Clair is an extraordinary book that delves into the captivating history, cultural significance, and intriguing anecdotes surrounding colours. With meticulous research, eloquent prose, and a passion for the subject matter, St. Clair takes readers on an enthralling journey through the kaleidoscope of colours that have shaped our world.

The American Pop Art emerged as a transformative movement during the mid-20th century, challenging the conventional norms of art and redefining the boundaries of creativity. With its vibrant colours, bold imagery, and focus on popular culture, the movement played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between high art and mass culture. To celebrate the 4th of July, we dive into the history of American Pop Art, highlighting the contributions of three iconic figures: Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Keith Haring.

One of, if not the iconic figures in the Pop Art movement,Roy Lichtenstein revolutionised the art world with his bold and vibrant prints. While his paintings are widely recognized, Lichtenstein's contributions to printmaking are equally significant. In today’s article, we will delve into Roy Lichtenstein's printmaking subjects and techniques, exploring the themes and artistic processes that made his prints so distinctive and influential.

Known for his provocative and conceptually-driven artwork, Damien Hirst has made notable contributions to the world of printmaking. While he is renowned for his installations and sculptures, Hirst's printmaking practice deserves recognition for its visual and technical mastery. In this article, we will examine Damien Hirst's printmaking, uncovering the intriguing themes and innovative processes that define this body of work.

Renowned for his vibrant and innovative works, David Hockney has made significant contributions to the world of printmaking. While he is renowned for his paintings and digital art, Hockney's printmaking deserves recognition for its distinct subjects and techniques. In this article, we explore Hockney's printmaking subjects and techniques, highlighting the unique artistic processes and captivating themes that define his prints.

Grayson Perry is celebrated for his thought-provoking and visually stunning artwork across various mediums. While Perry is known for his ceramics and tapestries, his mastery of printmaking also deserves recognition. Through printmaking, Perry brings his unique perspectives on society, culture, and identity to life. In this article, we will delve into Grayson Perry's printmaking subjects and techniques, discovering the powerful narratives and artistic processes behind his captivating prints.

Keith Haring, one of the most prominent figures in the 1980s New York art scene, left an enduring legacy with his iconic imagery and social activism. While Haring is celebrated for his powerful murals and drawings, his contributions to printmaking are equally significant. In this article, we will delve into Keith Haring's printmaking subjects and techniques, unravelling the vibrant subjects he tackled and the innovative artistic processes he employed.

As part of our new, ongoing series we speak with our network of suppliers and explore specific areas of their work. In today's article, we speak to Pendragon Frames about their important role in framing artworks for our gallery and clients.

One of, if not the most influential artists of the 20th Century, Andy Warhol’s pop-art images have become enshrined in the global lexicon of art. As much revered for his important works and prominent style as for embracing the fame that his talent brought him, Warhol’s impact on both the culture and art of the 20th century cannot be underestimated. Subject matter ranged from seemingly innocuous daily items to the most recognisable public figures of his time and presented a slice of Americana that has, for some,  since not been bettered. Amongst his portrait works it is perhaps the female subjects that he chose that have become the most famous and intriguing of his style. Frozen in time, they remain leading the female icons of the 20th century. In today's article we explore a selection of Warhol’s women and how he presents the female figure.

Throughout Banksy’s prolific career the artist has used a variety of reoccurring motifs - in particular children and animals. Animals, the theme of our article, can serve as powerful symbols, often representing certain qualities or ideas. Indeed, the emotional response that animals provoke can also create a deeper connection with his audience and make the viewers more receptive to the underlying message of the artwork. A relatable subject, animals relatable subjects that transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. By incorporating animals, Banksy's artwork can resonate with a wider audience, allowing his messages to reach people from different backgrounds and cultures. With this in mind, we undertake a Banksy safari looking at some of his most popular animal motifs across his print editions.

Eternally glamorous and frozen in a moment, Grace Kelly remains one of Warhol’s most enduring portraits. Commissioned and published in 1984  just two years after her tragic death from a car accident, this portrait sits within the Warholian tradition of depicting quintessential American celebrity icons posthumously. In today’s article we explore the creation and inspiration behind the work.

In an announcement that has dominated the headlines of the artworld, Banksy has announced a new exhibition, his first solo exhibition in 14 years, Taking place at Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) the “Cut & Paste” showcases 25 years of the stencil’s used by the world’s most elusive artist throughout his prolific career.

Yayoi Kusama is known for her avant-garde and groundbreaking work that spans across various mediums, including painting, sculpture, installations, performance art, and writing. Born on March 22, 1929, in Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan, Kusama's artistic journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of self-expression, creativity, and a tireless exploration of the human psyche. In today’s article we celebrate offering Yayoi Kusama prints  at Andipa Editions by looking through her life and career and why she is an important artist to collect.

A trio of street art titans are now available at Andipa Editions as we are delighted to announce the availability of iconic Jean-Michel basquiat prints that complement both our Banksy and Keith Haring offerings In today’s article, we look into these three seminal street artists whose works have become as recognisable as they are desirable.

David Hockney demonstrates a remarkable ability to depict light and water in his art. Throughout his career, spanning over 7 decades, Hockney has explored these elements with a keen eye, creating works that are visually stunning and emotionally evocative. From his iconic swimming pool series to his landscapes and portraits, Hockney's use of light and water has become synonymous with his artistic style. In today’s article we will delve into the ways Hockney harnesses light and water in his art, examining the techniques he employs and the effects they produce.

Rats, along with monkeys, elephants and children are an archetypal motif that Banksy has employed throughout his career across many street and studio works. In his 2005 autobiographical book Wall and Piece, which features over 30 different representations of rats from the artist’s early career, Banksy writes, “[Rats] exist without permission. They are hated, hunted and persecuted. They live in quiet desperation amongst the filth. And yet they are capable of bringing entire civilisations to their knees. If you are dirty, insignificant and unloved then rats are the ultimate role model.”

Last year Andipa were in New York City for the launch of the latest leg of the critically acclaimed Banksy exhibition ‘Building Castles in the Sky’. We share our review of the fabulous Basquiat King Pleasure Exhibition that was originally posted on Andipa Gallery. 

The largest of Hockney’s print series, Moving Focus is arguably one of his most ambitious both in subject matter and scope. The series of twenty-nine prints  was created from 1984 through to 1986. Employing a variety of styles and techniques, it is widely regarded as an exemplary example of the artist’s printmaking interest and his innate appreciation and command of perspective and colour. In today’s article, we explore a short analysis of the works in the series.

One of the most important and influential artists of the 20th century, Andy Warhol’s pop-art has inspired generations of collectors and artists across the globe. Known predominantly for his Soup Cans and celebrity portraits, Warhol’s subject matter varied across his career. In today’s article, we look to one of his last series: The Endangered Species portfolio.

Banksy collectors new and old watched in eager anticipation as the Basquiat inspired work, “Banksquiat. Boy and Dog in Stop and Search” appeared at Phillips, New York on the 18th of May 2023 with an estimate of $8,000,000 - 12,000,000. Part of the 20th Century & Contemporary Art Evening Sale, the imposing artwork measuring some 243.8 x 344.5 cm and appeared amongst other 20th century luminaries including Picasso, Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. In today’s article we explore the exciting work.

Last yeae, Andipa played host to an exciting joint collaboration between teztile designer Meoldi Horne and Silk Avenue bespoke rugs to celebrate London Design Festival. The joint collaboration between these two British design companies witnessed the ground floor of our gallery hosting a selection of their beautiful designs. In today's article, we speak with Jeff Holtgen Managing Director of Silk Avenue about how bespoke items can transform your interiors and the artistry inherent in their bespoke designs.

Today's article is a guest article by luxury florists Moyses Stevens who have, since 1876, assisted both private and commercial clients to enjoy the very best seasonal bouquets, installations and more. We don’t need to extol the pleasure that can be derived from fresh flowers - whether it’s the first scented garden rose of June, a radiant sunflower or a mass of spring tulips. It has been fascinating however, to sit down with one of London’s oldest and most renowned luxury florist’s, Moyses Stevens who’ve divulged the power flowers have to transform a space - particularly amongst their weekly contracts clients (of which Andipa Gallery in one!)

Banksy is known for his vocal position in regards to war. Throughout his career, many of his works have carried strong anti-war sentiment. Through his work, the artist speaks directly to the public to raise awareness of his anti-war cause and to challenge those in power who may be thirsty for war. In today’s article, we look at Banksy’s portrayal of war and his stance on the subject as told through a selection of works.

Flowers have been the subject for art for almost as long as humans were able to pick whatever tools at their disposal for self-expression. Their rich symbolism, deep meaning and alluring colours make them a subject that has been explored across countries, artistic movements and epoques. When we think of the subject of flowers in artistic expression one thinks of the Sunflowers of Van Gogh, the still lives of the Dutch Masters and blossoming flowers that feature in renaissance works. In today’s blog, we explore the use of flowers as told through four key artists.

The 1950’s and 60’s were, arguably, the golden era of the science-fiction where dashing heroes would face perilous encounters across the universe, where technology seemingly coexisted with and solved many of humanity's problems. Indeed, with these problems on Earth solved it was to space where we travelled in search of new planets, new adventures and new possibilities. Fast-forward some 70 odd years and, in a very Black mirror-esque way, technology isn’t all that it seems. In today’s blog, we examine the latest release by Damien Hirst and the wider discussion that surrounds the creative industries and the rise of AI.

Violence has been as tied to art for as long as it has appeared within and as part of the inherent human condition. A deeply provocative topic, violence can be expressed in various forms and often goes beyond a purely aggressive or physical outburst. Within the works of Banksy violence a range of motifs and guises. In today’s article, we examine how Banksy presents violence within a selection of well-known works.

Spring is in the air and with it comes the season of rebirth and new beginnings. Historically, Spring has been welcomed in many ways across many cultures over many years. In Ancient Greece and in Homeric poetry, we can find spring mentioned in similes, those vivid passages that engage all the senses and heighten the narrative. One such passage sees Winter mocking Spring, to which Spring replies, "Indeed, that is exactly why mankind would be glad to get rid of you, whereas even the mere mention of my name is enough to bring them pleasure. By Zeus, there is no name more pleasant than mine! That is why they remember [memnēmai] me when I am gone and give thanks when I appear [phainomai] again." We give thanks to Spring, and all that it brings, by looking at four seminal Banksy artworks that burst with a certain sense of spring.

Alexander James Kent FBCartS FRGS FRSA FSA SFHEA is a British cartographer, geographer and academic. He is Reader in Cartography and Geographical Information Science at Canterbury Christ Church University and a senior research associate of the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies at the University of Oxford. Recently, he spoke with Head of Prints Alex Yellop about Grayson Perry and his mapmaking. We share the first part of the interview below:

Spring is descending upon the Northern Hemisphere and with this change of season comes a sense of renewal as the long Winter days set behind us. With Spring comes the onset of blooming flowers, tepid climbs and bright days as life returns to the earth following the colder months. In today’s article, and to celebrate this season of rebirth, we explore the Andy Warhol seminal screenprint series: Flowers.

Known for his provocative and controversial works that challenge traditional notions of art Damien Hirst has used an array of recurring motifs throughout his career. One of the most prominent in his art is the use of butterflies. Hirst's use of butterflies has evolved over the course of his career, from their use as a decorative element to their incorporation into complex installations that explore themes of life, death, and transformation. In this article, we will explore Hirst's use of butterflies throughout his career and the themes and ideas that they represent.

A world without colour would be a very dull world indeed. For aeons, man has attempted to make sense of the world through art and, by extension, through our use of colour. Indeed, Van Gogh’s famous letters to his brother, in part, documented his fascination and attempts to portray the colours he witnessed in real life. In today’s blog, we turn our attention to the primary colours and Banksy’s use of them.

One artist, whose continuing popularity and influence can be felt almost thirty years after his death, has reshaped our perception between fine art and street art. Keith Haring and his prolific and inspiring output over the course of a career spanning nearly two decades has seen him ascend to street art royalty, Cafring a style and symbol that is recognisable to even those who do not know his name, his visual language has firmly entered into the dictionary of art. In today’s article, we examine one of his last releases, a celebration of sort of his motifs, The Icons Series.

Often compared, both due to their landscape format and similar themes, Weston-Super-Mare, Bomb Middle England and Have A Nice Day are a trio of seminal Banksy sister works. Released in the same year (2003) both as signed and unsigned limited edition works, these pieces are Banksy at his best: subversive, satirical and supremely stylish. In today’s article, we examine these three wonderful works.

Today, Valentine’s Day 2023, Banksy confirmed on his official Instagram account the authorship of a recent street piece that appeared in Margate, Kent. In today’s article we examine the latest artwork from the world’s most elusive and in-demand street artist.

Andipa Editions specialises in prints and multiples by the world’s leading artists. As part of Andipa, we have been in the same London townhouse for over 56 years. In today’s blog, we continue our series where we explore printmaking with our second instalment by looking at the printmaking process of screen printing.

The 2023 January auction season kicked off with solid results at Phillips’ Evening & Day Editions in London across a range of artists dealt by Andipa. In today’s article, we explore the performance of Hockney, Warhol, Hirst and, of course, Banksy.

Andipa Editions specialises in prints and multiples by the world’s leading artists. As part of Andipa, we have been in the same London townhouse for over 55 years. In today’s blog, we share our insights into printmaking in a new series that focuses on the five main techniques employed within the popular process.

Artists, like many of those who court fame, are allowed certain privileges within society and their status can command a great position. Within the status that celebrity affords and, by extension the platform, many great artists chose to use their voice, as well as their art, for good causes. In today’s article we examine how four of the artists in which we deal have used their art and platform for charitable and political causes.

Last month (September 2022), an Andy Warhol Muhammed Ali Quad (Feldman & Schellmann II.179-182) sold at Christies for a record price of £352,800.The work, a beautiful rendition of Boxing’s most famous son, is part of the 1977 series of ten famous athletes that was commissioned by Warhol’s friend and collector Richard Weisman. In today’s article, we explore the figures within the series and Warhol’s treatment of the subjects.

Known as much for his studio works as for his street installations and stunts, Banksy’s output has led him to gain critical and commercial success across the globe. His motifs and modus operandi have gone down in history and entered the pantheon of great art. Probably not before graffitiing the door on their way in. One of the aspects that we most enjoy about Banksy are the installations that have delighted both critics and collectors with their often poignant messages and excellent execution. In today’s article, we wind the clock back and look into three of our most favourite Banksy exhibitions and installations.

Grayson Perry and superlatives seemingly go hand in hand. From his iconic ceramics to his rich tapestries, his prolific output as a broadcaster and an artist sees him effortlessly straddle the boundary of authenticity whilst exploring popular mediums to reach wider audiences. His works constantly seek to challenge and are the result of a lifelong pursuit of expression that has seen him gain both critical and commercial success without compromising his artistic vision. In today's blog, we look into his most recent work "England as seen from Lockdown in Islington".

Damien Hirst has been at the forefront of the artworld for over three decades. Originally known as l’enfant terrible of British Art, Hirst emerged onto the scene as part of the YBAs (Young British Artists) of the 1980’s. Along with Tracey Emin, Gavin Turk and Sam Taylor-Johnson (formerly Sam Taylor-Wood) Hirst dominated the UK art world in the 1990s, supported by the advertising mogul Charles Saatchi. In today’s blog, we look into Hirst’s recent foray into the world of NFTs with his The Currency project.

Carrying rich associations with childhood and innocence, butterflies are symbols of freedom and, due to their short lifespans, of living life to the full. In many cultures they have come to represent human souls; in mediaeval Ireland, white butterflies were thought to be dead children; white butterflies have also been discovered fluttering in the cells of recently executed Tibetan monks. Death, and the escape therefrom, can also be seen in these beautiful beings. Indeed, the Rolling Stones released thousands of white butterflies at a concert in Hyde Park in 1969 as a tribute to Brian Jones, who had died two days before. Hirst use of the butterfly speaks to the concept that art imitates life as the butterfly symbolises the circle of life, growth, and change. Each butterfly is also born with a completely unique pattern, mimicking the individuality of each human. In today’s article, we explore Hirst’s use of butterflies in four seminal artworks.

Andy Warhol’s immeasurable impact on both popular culture and art cannot be understated. Images that have become part of our visual language, his iconic works are part of the cultural fabric of the world. From his Soup Cans to Marilyn Monroe immortalised in all her beauty, Warhol’s prolific works and equally prolific output have shaped important questions and discussions since their release. Inspired by Warhol’s output, we look into the formation and history of his catalogue raisonné.

In the span of his sadly short career and life, Keith Haring’s prolific output forever changed the direction of street art and pop culture. Haring's distinct style was alien from the prevailing styles of the time and was inspired by a variety of artistic sources (mainly contemporary and outsider art) all the while rooted in the backdrop of hip hop and counterculture that washed the streets. Influenced by the art of his father who used to draw comic strips, the beatniks and, later, the use of psychedelic drugs, Haring's pictorial language was replete with influences of central American, African and Oceanic cultures. What’s more, Haring’s style allowed him to transcend ego and the self, unlike tagging which is inherently egoistic and focused on the individual executing the work. It is not only in his works that Haring influenced the artworld but his very approach to distributing his pieces and with this in mind, we look into the history of Haring’s pop shops. 

Over the course of Banksy’s prodigious and continuing output certain motifs and themes reemerge. Given in various contexts and thus a new life, these specific themes that the artist explores has led him to a global popularity that eclipses the street art world and firmly establishes him as a great artist. Often labelled, or perceived, as a figure of counter-culture or representative thereof, authority and society are often thematically questioned in many of Banksy’s works. In today’s blog, we explore Banksy and his use of punk symbolism within 4 seminal works.

"Bad artists imitate, great artists steal”. Banksy. Picasso. The line between homage and a copy is never easy to define. Often blurred, sometimes thick, an artist using imagery and motifs created by another can often cause great debate. Whilst it is true that lineage and influences can be traced and that the complex web that interconnects the  history of art, and by extension, the artworks contained within form an intriguing map that takes us from prehistoric cave paintings to NFTs. In today’s article, we look at how Banksy pays homage to three of our most favourite artists and repurposes and reuses their famous motifs in his own works.

Inspired by a recent trip to New York, the Andipa Editions team felt a renewed interest and appreciation for the works of Keith Haring. Whilst not hailing from New York City, his life and works are most commonly associated with the Big Apple, and what could be more New York than looking at his subway drawings.

Andipa were recently in New York City for the launch of the latest leg of the critically acclaimed Banksy exhibition ‘Castles in the Sky’. Following on from previous locations which were curated by Andipa, we took the decision to step back as the esteemed location, 250 Bowery, the former International Center of Photography, is not an academic venue. However, all original paintings and sculptures were kindly loaned by collectors of Andipa. In between meetings with other galleries and museums, our team had the opportunity to explore the Lower East Side taking in the phenomenal array of street art. In our article, we look into the history of the area and share some of our favourite works.

Nations and its people often draw from shared images, motifs and institutions to sculpt and create our national identities. Indeed, a person's national identity results directly from the presence of elements from the "common points" in people's daily lives: national symbols, languages, colours, nation's history, shared culture and so on. In today’s blog, we look at how Banksy questions perhaps one of the most important symbols in Britain: The Royals through three works.

The sacred role of the artist in society can take on many forms as they seek to express, critique and question what we as a society value and, as a result, they turn the microscope from the collective to the individual causing us to question even ourselves. For millennia, artists have inhabited a special space that places them above the society, and by extension, rules that we have accepted. In today’s article, we look at how the world’s most in-demand artist Banksy takes this concept of the artist as the interrogator of society’s values and apply that to how authority is questioned through six of his seminal works.

War, sadly, is a fact of life. Whilst humans have evolved and living standards across the world have generally improved, war seems to be a constant inalienable part of human existence. Even in the 21st century our bellicose nature never appears to be too far away from the surface and ready to erupt in death and destruction. Indeed, war has been a subject for artists throughout recorded history and the present is no exception. In today’s article we explore war as told through five seminal works by Banksy. 

15 minutes of fame is surely fleeting enough. Or is it? In today’s article we explore and review both the latest Andy Warhol Netflix documentary series and the hit West End play ‘The Collaboration”.

Along with butterflies and skulls, spots are synonymous with Damien Hirst. Iconic and instantly recognisable, Hirst’s spot works pop directly at the viewer with colours that leap and fade from the prints. In today’s blog, and to celebrate the availability of Hirst’s 12 Woodcut series at Andipa Editions, we look into Hirst and his spot works.

 

Love is in the air as couples across the world celebrate their relationship and their love. Indeed, February the 14th is Valentine’s Day and to honour the occasion, we look into a recurring theme within Banksy’s prolific and seminal output: Love.

Banksy was back in the headlines recently with a big result on a small scale. Following on from his Great British Spraycation adventures of last year one of the stellar new street works he produced recently sold at auction for more than £1m GBP.

It is no secret that politics influences our lives. Crafting the fabric that we live in, politics and its influence on our immediate, daily experiences and the world around us cannot be understated. Artists, never impervious to such influences, can enter into a discourse with politics and bring such discourse to life through their works. In today’s blog we examine two  famous prints by Andy Warhol in regards to the politics of his era.

 

Andy Warhol’s exploration of both consumerism and its power are evident both across his works and in his modus operandi. Repetition, a central tenet to his printmaking mastery, throws daily motifs, logos, faces and people in front of the camera as Warhol becomes, not only the creator of the works, but the subject too.  From Campbell's Soup cans to Marilyn Monroe, Chanel perfume bottles (No. 5 of course) to Chairman Mao,  a journey through Warhol's prints is as much a journey through the icons of the 20th century as they are a celebration.

Welcome to the first blog of the New Year where we reflect on the first major auction that has taken place in January with strong sales showing a buoyant start. Taking place at Phillips London between the 19-20 January 2022 Evening & Day Editions showcased a plethora of artists who are household names.