D’Stassi Art has announced the UK debut solo show of Trevor ‘Trouble’ Andrew, also known as Gucci Ghost, who has gone from Olympic snowboarder to creative artist.
Titled Bang Bang, the exhibition opens on 11 August and will be on view until 20 September 2023, with an exclusive limited print series releasing in conjunction with the exhibition – available to purchase from D’Stassi Art’s website on Friday 28 July.
The story behind the paintings
Andrew’s paintings serve as a profound reflection of his life’s journey. His adventures, travels, and upbringing in Canada are intertwined with childhood impressions of America, shaped by the alluring spectacles of Hollywood. Having now made America his home and gaining a deeper understanding of these cultural projections, Andrew channels these experiences into his art.
Drawing inspiration from his formative years in the Canadian countryside and its folk art scene, Andrew’s new painting series is an ‘ode to the Western aesthetic’. Developed over the course of six years, his new body of work leans into nostalgia, dismantling the archetypal Hollywood cowboy image of the 20th century. Andrew uses spray paint to depict characters from his childhood with unveiling provocative and audacious reinterpretations.
What else to expect?
Alongside the new Bang Bang series, the exhibition will showcase select pieces from Andrew’s legendary Gucci Ghost project. Originally conceived as a musical project, it evolved into an exploration of the Gucci logo through a wide range of mediums including clothing, paintings, visual art, and digital creations. By reimagining discarded objects found on the streets and imbuing them with newfound significance, the project quickly garnered an online following and culminated in a collaboration with Gucci’s then-creative director Alessandro Michele in 2016.
Comments from the creators
Trevor Andrew said: “I’ve been working on this new series since 2017, diving deep into it during the pandemic and painting a diverse range of characters. The creative process behind this new work is intentionally abrasive, deconstructing established ideas and reconstructing them through the medium of spray paint.”
“Skateboard culture has been a major influence, giving me the freedom to experiment and be creative. Artists like Mark Gonzales, Lance Mountain, and Ed Templeton from that scene have left a lasting impact on me. As for the Gucci Ghost project, it really put me on the map – but now I’m ready for new ideas. I’ll be bringing a Gucci Ghost room to the exhibition, to provide context and invite visitors to immerse themselves in that world.
“Excited to also be releasing a print drop as part of the show – it’s important for me to make art accessible and allow everyone to bring something special and inspiring into their homes. Can’t wait to share these creations with everyone and keep exploring new artistic paths.”
Co-Founders of D’Stassi Art, Edward Sanders and Michael Howes also said: “We have been in contact with Trevor for the past 5 years, with both of us sharing ideas on projects we could look to collaborate on together. When I saw his cowboy series I knew it was an ideal fit for a solo with us at D’Stassi Art. We are thrilled to introduce Trevor’s work to our collectors and to be able to host his UK debut, this is going to be a huge moment in our programme this year.”
Bang Bang opens at D’Stassi Art on Friday 11 August and will be available to view for free until Wednesday 20 September 2023.
The limited print series will be available to purchase on Friday 28 July from £500 via D’Stassi Art.
D’Stassi Art
12-18 Hoxton St
Drysdale St
London
N1 6NG
I’m so excited that D’Stassi Art and Trevor Andrew have teamed up for his UK debut solo show, Bang Bang! Trevor’s story and creative journey is certainly captivating and inspiring – I’m looking forward to the romantic reinterpretations of the Hollywood cowboy image of the 20th century! Not to mention the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the world of the Gucci Ghost project. Hoping to check out the show in person some time soon.