Ed Hicks
  • Biography
  • Movements

Ed Hicks

United Kingdom • 1982

Biography

Ed Hicks, also known as Hicks 54, is a renowned British muralist, illustrator, and graffiti artist whose works span from graphically expressive landscapes to more obscure and abstract themes. Born on January 18th, 1982, Hicks emerged from the vibrant London street art scene in 2007 as a member of the controversial 54 Crew and Dead Leg Crew. Beyond street art, Hicks also explores music, showcasing his diverse artistic interests.

Ed Hicks has continually evolved his art throughout his career. Initially starting with conventional graffiti characters, he later began incorporating more intricate figures and dynamic landscapes into his work. Today, Hicks' pieces are more complex and thought-provoking, with painted characters often providing the viewer with a full narrative. In other works, the absence of a character leaves space for the audience to engage, inviting them into the dialogue and allowing them to interpret the artwork on a deeper level.

Hicks' creative process is spontaneous and driven by intuition. He does not plan his paintings beforehand, believing that muscle memory leads to the organic formation of shapes. These abstract shapes often transform into recognizable themes, such as animals or faces. While influenced by other artists, Hicks' work evolves uniquely as it progresses, resulting in one-of-a-kind pieces that bear his distinct style. Using simple tools, such as an ordinary brush and black paint, Hicks allows the artwork to emerge naturally, guiding the creative flow.

Throughout his prolific career, Ed Hicks has collaborated with several notable artists, including Mr. Jago, Best/Ever, Will Barras, and Jim Vision. His art is deeply influenced by German Expressionism and Chinese watercolors, blending these styles with his own innovative approach to street art.

Hicks has showcased his work in numerous solo and group exhibitions. One of his most significant collective exhibitions was Kick-Ass 2, hosted by Rockwell House in December 2013. He also held a solo show, Tarot, at The Jeffrey West Gallery in March and April 2015. In 2009, Hicks won the prestigious Secret Wars tournament, solidifying his reputation in the street art community. He is also a key member of the End of the Line collective.

Ed Hicks continues to push the boundaries of street art, constantly evolving and leaving a lasting mark on the global art scene.

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