Dive into the world of Philip Colbert. Originally from Perth, he studied philosophy at the University of St Andrews, before becoming a fashion designer, then combined the two as he moved into a career in neo-pop surrealism that has made him one of the most collectable and influential artists working today.
Colbert was christened (not literally) the “godson of Andy Warhol” by the late André Leon Talley, editor-at-large of Vogue, and similarly comments on, critiques and capitalises on consumerist trends and commercial iconography with his lobster-like characters, the Lobstars, citizens of his imagined Lobsteropolis society. The Lobstars have invaded cities across the world, from Rome to Singapore and across South Korea and China. A giant floating lobster sailed down the Grand Canal in Venice, and his most ambitious exhibition has just landed in Pompeii, making him only the second artist (in modern times) to exhibit among the Roman ruins.
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On news that 30 of Colbert’s sculptures would be placed around the archaeological site there was excited chatter from fans, as well as comments like: “I wouldn’t be surprised if Vesuvius erupts in anger in response to this silliness.” Colbert’s art provokes a response. That’s the point. We are forced to see the world differently.
He’s taken time to create an exclusive cover for Big Issue. His bright red lobster character will be sold by our vendors in their bright red tabards. Both are designed to attract attention, and like this magazine can help us look at the world anew.
What else is in this week’s Big Issue?
Bugs and bikers take on the tech giants
The Thurrock Hammers, a speedway club whose members love tearing around a tarmac ring on petrol-guzzling motorbikes. Buglife are conservationists obsessed with halting invertebrate extinction. They’re teaming up to fight a huge data centre.
It’s 15 years since Amy Winehouse died. Here’s how her legacy is helping women overcome addiction
Big Issue visited Amy’s Place just a day before the 15th anniversary of Winehouse’s death at the age of 27. Despite the tragedy, her family and the staff of Amy’s Place are determined that her memory lives on through the transformative work the centre does.
