A MOSSLEY-BASED artist has designs on going on to bigger and better things after opening a new studio.
Simon Mound’s work is already on display after his portrait of late comedian and actor Rik Mayall was unveiled at the town’s Gillery venue.
Now he has the base to spread his name further after setting up a base at Woodend Mill, off Manchester Road.
Although according to Simon, he already has his eye on going intergalactic.
Simon held a grand opening on Sunday, October 16, where people could glimpse some of the creations he makes.
Working in spray painting and with mixed medium, he specialises in spray painted iconic pop portraits and mixed medium expressionist compositions.
And while his talent has already attracted interest from across the globe – he can do more from his new studio.
Simon said: “I began to cut stencils and become fascinated with spray paint during a pottery class at Audenshaw High school around 1988.
“By the time I finished high school and Ashton-Sixth- Form College, where I studied art and design, I had completely fell out of love with art.
“It wasn’t until just after the birth of my second child in 2004 that I began painting again and my love was rekindled.
“Since 2004, I have had opportunities to work alongside some of the world’s most iconic recording artists, created record cover art, sold artwork across the globe, had work stolen from galleries and had pieces forged.
“I’m also about to send digital copies of my work to the moon, all in all it’s been interesting to say the least.”
Simon’s work has featured in The Correspondent before when the Rik Mayall portrait was unveiled.
And when the covers came off, he said: “I’ve always been a believer in taking art away from the galleries.
“In places like The Gillery, it’s just more accessible. For me, this kind of thing is what I like to do.
“It’s a good thing to start conversations and make people talk in a public building – and adding to what’s around Mossley gives me great pride.”
Images thanks to Marie Whitehead Photography
mariewhiteheadphotography.co.uk