British artists Reuben Dangoor and Heath Kane have helped in reimagining a series of iconic pub signs as nude artworks as a direct response to the threat facing pubs across the UK, amid the current cost of living crisis.
As artists, Dangoor and Kane have always been about change and community. For example, recent work from Reuben Dangoor has come in the form of collaborative work with Arsenal Football Club that took inspiration from local tube stations for fans who travel to the Emirates Stadium, while Heath Kane has consistently pushed the boundaries with politically-charged artworks that demand change from the British government.
With this being said, the duo’s latest work — with the campaign being titled “The Pub Renaissance” — is another call for change as British pubs continue to struggle in raising money for constantly rising energy bills. As per the Hospitality Action charity, a report has stated that applications for financial support for pubs have increased by 29% over the last 12 months.
Reuben Dangoor’s artwork also features ex-model and current pub landlord, Jodie Kidd, who is supporting the campaign to raise awareness for the hospitality industry. Her portrait is featured across own pub sign for The Half Moon — and it shows a batsman saving his blushes with a strategically placed bat.
The campaign has been funded by Stella Artois, and the nude pub signs have been made available for online auction for a limited time only, with more affordable posters also being available via the official Stella Pub Signs website. All profits will be donated to Hospitality Action and Stella Artois will also match funds raised up to £50,000 GBP.
In other news, take a look at adidas’ new art museum basketball court.
