Conclave Gallery on Queens Road (between The Quadrant and Hope & Ruin pubs) has long championed local and international artists and is currently playing host to an exhibition of new works by Michael Panteli, a long-time collaborator, via post, with the king of underground cartoons, Robert Crumb.

In Panteli’s first UK solo show in over 10 years, he presents more than 100 works, created between 2003 and 2022. Ranging from the subtle to the extreme, every work has a message (whether that’s for the viewer, their friends, their enemies, or their governments).

Social media culture, right-wing personalities, powerful organisations of all ilks, contradictions, toxic masculinity, violence, and bigotry are all in the firing line, and Panteli uses humour and filthy language, together with his trusty pens and pencils to target these subjects.

His influences are golden-age comic covers from the 1930s-50s, wartime propaganda posters, art deco advertising, the underground comix scene of the late 60s/early 70s and vintage product packaging and billboards and this show includes several collaborative works made with Crumb, never before displayed in the UK.

We spoke to the artist at the private view on Friday, where he told us about the original pulp comics and artists that inspired him, his working relationship with Robert Crumb and the difficulties he has experienced with social media censorship. He’ll be at the gallery for the whole week to answer your questions.

During the show, original works and limited-edition works will be available to purchase, with further limited edition prints available to order. Panteli’s comics and wallet-friendly merch will also be up for grabs. This is a great opportunity to pick up a unique piece before they’re all gone.

Please note this show is suitable for 18+ only.

Saturday 5th – Sunday 13th March 2022
Conclave Gallery, 9 Queens Road, Brighton