The Denim Masterpieces of Ian Berry

Where most people see denim through the lens of casual fashion, UK artist Ian Berry sees tremendous creative potential for personal expression. Difficult as it may be for first-time observers to believe, he creates these elaborate and realistic masterpieces using nothing but scraps of recycled jeans, scissors and glue. Aside from his astonishing technique and prowess for rendering in this unconventional medium, Ian steeps his work in emotion and psychological exploration.

The deep moods and nostalgia are palpable thanks in part to the monochrome blue palette - but mostly it’s a testament to his thoughtful and painterly approach towards rendering. One could very easily mistake these pieces for acrylic or oil, right up until they get up close and personal, a detail which appears to be intentional.

Ian discusses his unorthodox choice of medium:

“I strive for photorealist perfection and it’s amazing how denim can aid with this,’ says Ian. ‘I get a lot of jeans donated to me and I tend to use the ones that have the most character within them so, in a sense, that pair almost becomes my palette. Denim is very much the material of our time so, for me, it’s the perfect material to depict it.”

All images courtesy of Ian Berry. View more at his home page or visit him on Facebook, Art, Twitter .