Stuart Semple (born 1980) is a British artist who defies easy categorization. He's a multi-disciplinary force, working across mediums like painting, sculpture, happenings, technology, and activism. His work is as playful and vibrant as it is thought-provoking, often tackling themes of youth culture, accessibility, and the impact of technology on society. Stuart's artistic journey began in his youth, fueled by childhood visits to the National Gallery and a passion for Impressionism.
He honed his skills at Bournemouth and Poole College and Bretton Hall College, but a near-death experience at 19 left a lasting impact. This event seems to have ignited a deeper purpose in his art, a desire to explore the emotional and sociological effects of mass culture on individuals. Semple's artistic voice is distinct. He draws inspiration from low-brow internet culture, 90s nostalgia, and the critical theories of the Frankfurt School. This unique blend manifests in his work, often bursting with bright colours, internet references, and a touch of melancholy.
He's exhibited his creations internationally, from solo shows at the Truman Brewery in London to major public art projects around the world. However, Semple's impact extends far beyond traditional galleries. He's a pioneer in utilizing the internet as a platform for artistic expression. Projects like Culture Hustle, a brand offering unique art materials, exemplify this.
The "Pinkest Pink" paint, for instance, is not just a colour but a playful commentary on artistic ownership. Semple famously banned a certain controversial artist from using it, adding another layer of intrigue to his creation.
In 2016, the art world was abuzz with renowned artist Anish Kapoor securing exclusive rights to Vantablack, a light-devouring material known as the "blackest black." This exclusivity rankled Semple. His response? "Black 2.0," a paint even blacker than Vantablack, with a hilarious twist. The terms and conditions of purchase included a playful clause stating anyone who buys it agrees not to give it to Kapoor.
Enter Culture Hustle, Semple's ingenious brand of art materials. These aren't your average paints and brushes. Culture Hustle products are conversation starters, each with a story to tell. Take the now-iconic "Pinkest Pink" paint. This vibrantly coloured acrylic isn't just for creating masterpieces; it's a playful jab at artistic ownership. Semple famously banned a certain artist (you can probably guess who) from using it, adding a layer of intrigue and social commentary to the product.
Culture Hustle isn't just about selling art supplies; it's about fostering a thriving creative community. Stuart believes that art should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or experience. His products are high-quality yet affordable, making them perfect for aspiring artists and seasoned creators alike. The brand's online presence is a hub of inspiration, with tutorials, artist spotlights, and a vibrant community forum where creativity flows freely.
We're thrilled that Cass Art Islington now offers a vibrant selection of Culture Hustle art materials! So, whether you're looking for the iconic "Blackest black" paint, super black acrylics, or unique mediums to experiment with, head down to Cass Art Islington and explore the exciting world of Culture Hustle!
Vantablack, originally developed by Surrey NanoSystems for scientific applications, has captivated artists with its ability to create an illusion of depth and absorb nearly 100% of light. Semple, never one to shy away from a playful challenge, Following the groundbreaking success of Black 2.0, Culture Hustle proudly presents Black 4.0 – a paint so black, it makes its predecessors look like a moonlit night sky.
Vantablack, the light-devouring wonder material developed for scientific applications, has always held a certain mystique for artists. But its exclusivity and delicate nature made it difficult for most creators to utilize. Enter Semple, who with Black 2.0, democratized the super-black experience for artists.
Beyond its visual impact, Vantablack 4.0 embodies the spirit of Culture Hustle. It's a testament to Semple's commitment to innovation and his playful defiance of artistic norms. This isn't just black paint; it's a conversation starter, a tool for pushing creative boundaries, and an invitation to explore the very nature of light and darkness. Whether you're a seasoned artist seeking to add a new dimension to your work or an aspiring creator drawn to the allure of the unknown, Vantablack 4.0 is a must-have. It's a chance to experiment, to challenge perceptions, and to create art that truly defies definition.
- Absorbs all the light in the universe as well as other universes
- Works on all surfaces
- Thins with water
- Archival
- No cooking, Vacuum chambers or massive ego needed
- Brush or airbrush
- High quality pigments means a little travels light years
- The mattest, flattest black you'll ever see
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