The Graduate

The Graduate is an original Silkscreen on Canvas by British artist, Trafford Parsons.

Trafford graduated in Fine Art from Goldsmiths University London in 2003. Whilst at Goldsmiths, he discovered the Pop Art aesthetic. This had a major influence over Trafford and went on to guide his work; making films, sculptures, printings and paintings – many in silkscreen form, just like The Graduate.

After graduating, there was an immediate interest in his limited edition prints and originals. Parsons quickly built up a firm collector group and following within the art world. He worked with Pictures On Walls (which was started in 2003 by a loose collection of artists who were shunned by the controlling influencers of the day – so they set about producing and distributing their own art. Founding artists included art world giants such as Banksy, D*Face and Nick Walker). Another notable part of Trafford’s early career was his participation in the legendary Santa’s Ghetto exhibition in 2006. Santa’s Ghetto was a gallery and amusement arcade founded by Banksy, which opened for 23 days in London’s West End to showcase affordable artworks from 20 underground artists. This was the start of seeing Trafford’s work all over the world.

Trafford produces artworks that allude to films that have never been made or that he wants to make, playing with the elements of a story yet to be written. We enter his world of wonder and mischief. The work is a “what if”,  and as the viewer, you get to join into this idea.

Trafford Parsons on his favourite medium:

Printing is a magical process. Out of all of the artworks I produce, it’s the printing that stands out for me. I love the individual yet industrial process – the way so many of the things we rely on are printed; money, tickets, t-shirts, books, art. We live in a printed world.

He enjoys seeking out new places and canvases for his artwork. For example: outdoor walls, shop shutters, hi-fi shops, furniture stores, hotels, offices, night clubs, student unions, concert halls.