PAUL INSECT


Paul Insect is a prominent contemporary artist renowned for his vibrant and provocative works that blend elements of Dada, Pop Art, and street culture. He studied graphic design at Hastings and Salisbury Art Colleges, laying the foundation for his distinctive aesthetic.
Insect first garnered significant attention with his 2007 solo exhibition, "Bullion," at London's Lazarides Gallery. The show was notably acquired in its entirety by art collector Damien Hirst prior to its opening, underscoring Insect's rising prominence in the art world.
Operating under the moniker "PINS," Insect has collaborated with renowned street artist Banksy on several projects, including the Cans Festival, the Santa's Ghetto project in Bethlehem, and work on the separation wall in Palestine.
His art is characterised by a collision of vivid colours, bold lines, and partially obscured faces, reflecting a fascination with the dual themes of revelation and concealment. Anonymous eyes, lips, and noses are often buried behind swaths of bright primary colours and bold patterns, creating a dynamic interplay between visibility and obscurity.
Beyond traditional canvases, Insect has ventured into mixed-media works and installations. Notably, he collaborated with New York street artist Bast to create "Fly Tip Theatre," exhibited at Banksy's Dismaland in 2015. This piece featured puppets made entirely from found objects, offering a satirical commentary on societal archetypes.
