Richard Hambleton: Godfather of Street Art

Richard Hambleton was a Canadian artist who was part of a group that emerged from the New York City art scene in the 1980s. He was known for his pioneering street art, which depicted chalk-body outlines and blood-splattered crime scenes. This book features over 200 images of his work, including his early Shadow Man canvas paintings, photographs of his in situ street work, and his Marlboro rodeo horse silhouettes. Hambleton influenced artists such as Banksy, Blek le Rat, and Shepard Fairey.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2022
Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications

Richard Hambleton, a renowned Canadian artist, gained recognition for his pioneering contributions to street art. Born in 1954 and passing away in 2017, he was a member of a group that emerged from the vibrant New York City art scene during the flourishing art market of the 1980s. This group included close friends Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, who shared a collective influence on the art world.

Hambleton's artistic journey began with his early conceptual installations, titled "Image Mass Murder" from 1976 to 1979. These works were covertly placed onto streets in over 15 cities, featuring chalk-body outlines and blood-splattered crime scenes that depicted apparent victims. This unsettling theme of prevailing violence, fear, and morbid curiosity struck a chord with unsuspecting viewers, eliciting surprise and anxiety.

In the early 1980s, Hambleton achieved his most iconic works, known as the "Shadow Man" series. Artfully splattered on unexpected street corners, walls, and alleys, these shadowy figures startled viewers into a visceral realization that the city remained a dangerous place. These captivating images captured the essence of urban exploration and fear, leaving a lasting impact on the art world.

This comprehensive book showcases over 200 images, encompassing Hambleton's early "Shadow Man" canvas paintings, photographs of his in situ street work, a selection of his Marlboro rodeo horse silhouettes, and his renowned "Beautiful Paintings" series of landscapes and seascapes. Additionally, it features behind-the-scenes studio shots, personal and unseen photographs of the artist, and inspirational imagery.

Hambleton's influence extended beyond his own artistic endeavors, as he inspired artists such as Banksy, Blek le Rat, and Shepard Fairey. His unique style and bold approach to street art continue to resonate with a wide audience, captivating those interested in visual arts, street art, graffiti, and art history.

This captivating and one-of-a-kind book is a testament to Richard Hambleton's enduring legacy and his profound impact on the art world. It serves as a valuable resource for enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone seeking to explore the rich tapestry of street art and its influential figures.

Weight: 2104g
Dimension: 283 x 341 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780847871254