3D: Massive Attack, Ritual Spirit at Lazarides Editions

Robert Del Naja is a pioneer in many things, but here his artwork takes centre stage. As part of trip hop legends Massive Attack, he helped define the Bristol music scene as a hotbed of experimentation and creative freedom. Under his alias, 3D, Del Naja was also an instrumental figure in Bristol street art.

In time for the release of Massive Attack’s new album and a series of upcoming London performances, Del Naja presents a visual history of some of the bands more popular album artwork, all his own work from throughout their career. There are a number of limited edition prints, including 200 hand-finished 12-inch EP sleeves from their new release, Ritual Spirit, each at a very reasonable £30. This personal touch allows for slight variations in each numbered and signed piece, which will make for a valuable collector’s item and a part of history.

Many of the pieces in this exhibition will be familiar to music and art fans alike, as they reprise some of his more popular album covers and previous work. Using repeated prints makes for an interesting experience, as it almost tricks the eye. Deep exploration allows for the most minute of differences to be discovered, thus illuminating each image as something different and unique.

There are also a few multimedia pieces that exhibit the various forms that art can take. Hidden upstairs is an entrancing kaleidoscopic light box, which flashes out words and phrases that challenge our sense of self and how we fit in to society.

Del Naja and the Lazarides gallery have a long standing relationship, being one of the first to display his solo work. The exposed piping and brickwork help to create the urban backdrop that were the original canvas for his work as 3D. The vibrant colours leap off the walls, challenging perspectives, whereas the darker images draw you into their vacuum.

With Massive Attack playing three sell-out gigs in London this week, this is a must-see for any fan. It provides another way to interpret Del Naja and the art he creates, both on and off stage.

Yassine Senghor

3D: Massive Attack, Ritual Spirit is on at Lazarides Editions from 3^rd February to 5^th March 2016.