Rich Simmons, born on February 20, 1986 in Peterborough, England, is a contemporary urban pop artist known for his unique stencils and spray paint work. From a young age, Simmons showed a natural talent and passion for art, which would eventually lead him to pursue a career in the art world.
In 2011, Simmons gained widespread recognition for his bold and provocative artwork. One of his most notable pieces was a punk mural in honor of William, Prince of Wales, and Kate Middleton's wedding. Inspired by a 1970's photo of Sex Pistols bass player Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen, the mural captivated audiences with its edgy and rebellious aesthetic.
Simmons draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including pop art, comic artists from the 1950s and 60s, and Renaissance techniques in composition and golden ratio. His work often explores themes of lust, mental health, and social injustice, pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms.
As the creator and founder of Art Is the Cure, Simmons is a passionate advocate for art therapy. Through this organization, he promotes the healing power of art and encourages others to use creativity as a means of self-expression and emotional release. His work has been recognized with numerous awards, including an Impact DOCS Award and an NYC Mental Health Film Festival Award.
Over the years, Simmons has collaborated with various artists and organizations to create impactful campaigns and projects. In 2022, he partnered with Sophie Tea to paint Burberry trench coats for a sustainability and climate awareness campaign by the fashion label Gent London. The coats were featured at London Fashion Week, with proceeds of the sales donated to environmental organizations.
Rich Simmons' artistic vision and social advocacy continue to inspire audiences around the world. Through his thought-provoking artwork and commitment to positive change, he has solidified his place as a leading figure in the contemporary art scene.
Whether he is creating vibrant street art or engaging in philanthropic initiatives, Simmons' creativity and passion shine through in everything he does. He remains a force for good in the art world, using his talent to drive meaningful conversations and inspire positive action.