Simon Claridge is a UK-based contemporary artist best known for his successful diamond dust silkscreen editions, which reimagined iconic figures through a bold pop-art aesthetic and garnered international recognition.
Alongside these celebrated works, his practice spans meticulously hand-painted portraits that draw on the visual language of vintage comics, classic Hollywood, and 20th-century popular culture—blending nostalgia with modern attitude and a deep commitment to craftsmanship.
After graduating with a degree in Fine Art, Simon began his career working within the gallery system, gaining first-hand experience of the commercial art world. It was during this time that one of the most defining moments of his career occurred. While working at a gallery, Simon quietly replaced the window display with his own artwork overnight. By lunchtime the following day, every piece had sold. The response was immediate and decisive—this moment became the catalyst for Simon signing with one of the UK’s leading art publishers, launching his career as a full-time artist.
In the years that followed, Simon’s work gained international recognition, leading to collaborations and commissions with major cultural brands including 20th Century Fox and Playboy. His portfolio became closely associated with reimagined portrayals of 20th-century cultural icons, including working with Brigitte Bardot, exploring themes of glamour, mythology, and collective memory.
A significant milestone came through his work with the archives of legendary photographer Terry O’Neill, translating some of the most iconic images of the 20th century into fine art editions. This body of work further established Simon’s reputation within the UK and international art market.
Later in his career, Simon opened his own art gallery in Winchester, marking a pivotal chapter that allowed him to experience the art world from both sides—artist and gallerist. Running the gallery deepened his understanding of curation, presentation, and the emotional relationship between artwork and collector, but ultimately led him back to the studio with renewed clarity.
Stepping away from that chapter, Simon rediscovered his love for painting itself: the quiet focus, repetition, and patience of making work slowly by hand. He is now fully immersed in his Iconic Series, defined by painstakingly hand-painted Ben-Day dots, bold graphic linework, and carefully controlled colour palettes. Each piece is created entirely by hand, embracing visible labour and subtle imperfection as a deliberate counterpoint to digital shortcuts.
Today, Simon’s work celebrates authenticity, cultural memory, and the enduring power of painting—art that invites viewers to slow down, look closer, and live with the image over time.
His work is held in private collections and exhibited through leading UK galleries.