1x: Tell us a little bit about this piece, anything immediate you would like us to highlight about this painting?
Sickboy: This piece was painted as part of my Wonder Club series that was inspired by comic books which was for me the golden era of psychedelic history. These images and words captured the essence of a time before me. Being inspired by a small movement like Zap Comix and Futuropolis, I took note of their values, as well as using their visual references. Whatever happens, its always got my own stamp all over it.
Sickboy by Joanna Dudderidge
1x: What materials was this piece created with?
Sickboy: I use a super fine canvas and the pieces usually start with hammerite and thinners thrown chaotically at the canvas using a super nice brush. I think this abstract expressionist approach to the start of a canvas breaks the silence of a white surface. From there I define the shapes and start to create a narrative. I use materials such as spray paint, acrylic and enamel to jump from loose to tight mark making.
1x: When was this piece created?
Sickboy: I did this for my 2013 solo show Wonder Club in San Francisco, this was the central piece for me.
1x: How long did this piece take?
Sickboy: Usually a piece will take on average 3 weeks, but that’s three weeks with no shoes on. Some deep balearic vibes and josstick smoke waving under my nose as I eat takeaways off my laptop trying to research content for the pieces. Long days, I give myself to the work.
1x: Describe this piece in one gut reaction word.
Sickboy: Stick wizard.
1x: When did you first start making art?
Sickboy: In 1985 when I was 5 years old I drew my family a load of copies from a Beano comic. That’s the earliest I can remember. Professionally since 1998.
1x: What was your first piece?
Sickboy: “Sweeny the Toddler” by a dog basket for my uncle aged 5.
1x: What artists inspired you early on?
Sickboy: I have always liked the work of Hundertwasser, Picasso, Frank Stella. From early on Hundertwassers treatment of architecture was particularly interesting.
1x: What artists inspire you now?
Sickboy: My friend Horphe gave me a book by a French comic artist called Calvo, it’s pretty mind blowing. I think he got sued by Disney. I’m a fan of Lowry at the minute. I’m from near Manchester and I like the honesty in his depictions of the industrial era, plus anything that contains small figures or characters on a landscape kind of stimulates my brain. Hieronymous Bosch can be in that gang as well.
1x: If you could collaborate with any living artist who would it be?
Sickboy: I’m happy with who I already collaborate with I feel pretty blessed with my creative circle.
1x: If you could collaborate with any deceased artists who would it be?
Sickboy: Keith.
1x: What was the first piece of art that you bought? Do you still have it?
Sickboy: I don’t think I have bought much art I have Picassos, Adam Neate, Banksys, Horphe, Gasius and Anthony Lister in my collection. They’re not going anywhere.
1x: Any big shows or events coming up that you’d like to share?
Sickboy: In December I will launch a project that will connect the world with light.
1x: Where else can people find you?
Sickboy: Website – Instagram@sickboykks & @fluorescentsmogg
-1xRUN