Dank of England

OIL ON CANVAS
YEAR: 2024

SOLD

Dank of England – In Memory of Black the Ripper

Painted at just 19 years old, this work marks a pivotal chapter in the artist’s journey. Too large to work on in his bedroom—where all his practice paintings and commissions were then created—this canvas became the first piece undertaken in his parents’ garage. That space, with help from his grandad, would soon be transformed into a dedicated art studio, laying the foundation for his future career.

Before all of this began, the idea was sparked while relaxing with a friend at the Dank of England Social Club in Barcelona. They noticed the large paintings on the wall.

I said to my friend, “Look at them. Those canvases look good that size. I need to do one that size.”

He replied, “You’ve gotta do one, bro. They’d definitely have your work up there if you did one for them.”

I paused, taking them all in, and replied, “Give me a month. I’ll have one on the wall.”

I meant it—but they were courageous words from someone who had never had a painting displayed publicly before. However, two weeks later, it was finished and being sent to Barcelona.

This was also the first painting created for someone, or a brand, that reached out directly after seeing the work in progress on social media. A short Instagram reel of the unfinished piece caught the attention of Screech and the Dank of England team, who instantly wanted it flown out to its new home. It would go on to become a staple wall piece in honour of the late Black the Ripper—an enduring tribute to his legacy.

I remember working late into the night, headphones on full, driven by a deep sense that something positive would come from this painting. At the time, I had just learned about the Law of Attraction. Understanding the concept is one thing—but putting it into practice is another. I realised I had to see it to believe it. As I sketched, I wrote down that it would be seen and appreciated by those I wanted to see it. I kept everything I wanted for this piece—its audience, its journey, its reception—constantly in my thoughts.

The experience reinforced a core lesson: many give up on projects destined for greatness because they lack immediate feedback. But belief, confidence, and mastery of your craft can turn vision into reality. At the time, I wasn’t receiving much appreciation for my art beyond love from family and friends. That’s why it’s vital to see further than you can currently reach.

After receiving the invitation to deliver the work to London for its journey to Spannabis 2024 in Barcelona—and without a car at the time—my :
Dad stepped in, ensuring it made it in time for its flight. Today, the piece stands not only as a vibrant, immersive tribute to an influential figure in UK music and cannabis culture, but also as a milestone in my own artistic evolution.