On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, SOCIETY by Sean BW Parker is a captivating collection of original paintings from 2018–2025, portraying intriguing figures like Johnny Depp and Elon Musk.
SOCIETY
Sean BW Parker’s tenth book, SOCIETY, marks a striking departure from his previous works, presenting a vivid collection of original paintings. This is Parker’s first book dedicated entirely to his visual art, featuring portraits of notable figures like Johnny Depp, Dilbert creator Scott Adams, and Elon Musk, alongside lesser-known and abstracted personalities. Painted between 2018 and 2025, these works capture the essence of the “cancelled,” the imprisoned maintaining innocence, and other intriguing individuals who have shaped contemporary culture. The book’s appeal lies in its accessibility—readers can simply open it, absorb the art, and choose whether to delve deeper into the subjects’ stories.
SOCIETY has already garnered significant attention, reaching number 6 in Amazon’s Acrylic Painting Techniques charts shortly after its release. Its cultural resonance is amplified by endorsements from figures like Ricky Gervais, who shared it with his 14 million X followers, affirming its place in the contemporary art scene.
The Philosophy Behind the Brushstrokes
Parker’s artistic process is instinctive and subconscious. His approach—described as “make, then see what I’ve made”—allows concept to emerge organically from creation. Drawing inspiration from the history of art and culture, Parker infuses his work with the pulse of the present moment, blending cultural influences with the raw energy of paint. His portraits reflect the zeitgeist, while his abstracts channel the medium itself, achieving a dynamic balance that he considers the pinnacle of his artistic success—though, as he acknowledges, “success is an entirely subjective term in art.”
The cultural world profoundly shapes Parker’s creations, yet he remains acutely aware of the challenges of engaging with art in a fast-paced digital age. SOCIETY counters this by offering an immediate, emotional connection through its visuals, inviting viewers to engage on their terms.
A Multifaceted Creative Journey
A graduate of the University for the Creative Arts (MA Fine Art, 2003), Parker’s career is a testament to his ability to transcend adversity and challenge conventions. His decade in Istanbul (2004–2014) was a formative period, marked by a TEDx talk on “Stammering and Creativity” and lecturing at Istanbul University. These experiences inform the depth and diversity of his work, which spans painting, poetry, music, and cultural commentary.
Parker’s prolific output includes books, music, and curatorial projects. He has earned recognition through awards and publications, including contributions to Westminster Commission reports, the T.S. Eliot Foundation, Time Out Istanbul, and Louder Than War. His influence extends to interviews with cultural icons like Julie Burchill and Ed Harcourt, as well as curating festivals such as Chi-Signs and Blakefest. As the host of Seafish, his music and arts venue, and a speaker at institutions like the University of Bristol and BIMM, Parker continues to shape the cultural landscape.
Music and Activism: A Life of Impact
Parallel to SOCIETY, Parker has released his new album, Dinosaur, a continuation of his musical journey that began in 1989. A versatile musician, he has performed with numerous bands, collaborated on projects like the Demon Groove Lizards and Ettuspadix Beautilator’s Ninja Lit, and written heartfelt songs praised by philosopher Alain de Botton for their intelligence and emotion. Blending folk, rock, and electronic elements, Parker’s music has taken him on tours across the UK and Europe, with performances at festivals and venues worldwide.
Beyond his creative pursuits, Parker is a dedicated activist, advocating for justice reform and supporting people who stammer, drawing from his personal experiences. His work in this space is as impactful as his art, reflecting a commitment to using creativity as a force for change.
Looking Ahead: The Next Portrait
Parker’s artistic vision is ever-evolving, with plans to paint JJ Barnes as his next subject, adding another inspiring figure to his gallery of cultural icons. SOCIETY is more than a book—it’s an invitation to explore the intersections of art, culture, and individuality through Parker’s unique lens. Whether you’re drawn to the vivid portraits, the stories behind them, or the broader cultural commentary, SOCIETY offers a compelling entry point into the mind of a multifaceted artist.
Find more from Sean BW Parker now:
Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ZxSyk8
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4kn0QDO
Hardcover: https://amzn.to/3ZBsmFp
https://medium.com/@seanbwparker
https://www.saatchiart.com/seanbwparker
https://www.facebook.com/seanbwparkerpage
https://twitter.com/seanbwparker
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