The Real Hackney Dave
FAQ's
FAQ's
Dave Buonaguidi, known as The Real Hackney Dave, uses mass communication and propaganda techniques to create playful, provocative statement artworks. His work is designed to forge a direct connection with his audience, using assertive, amusing, or uplifting phrases—often with strong language—to provoke an instant reaction.
Dave's process revolves around screen printing on found materials like vintage photographs, maps, or copper plates, giving each piece a unique history. He layers these traditional images with unexpected materials such as glitter, gold leaf, or even pheromone spray, challenging conventional boundaries of what’s possible or acceptable in art. “I love creativity with a purpose," he says. "There has to be a reaction."
Born and based in London, Dave’s background in advertising plays a crucial role in his art, where the precision of pairing words and images reflects his expertise. Pop art, especially the anarchic décollage style of Jamie Reid, and a vintage propaganda book from his Italian grandmother are key influences.
Inspired by politics, media, and universal emotions, Dave aims to make his art as accessible and democratic as pop music—something for everyone to enjoy. He’s exhibited at prestigious venues like the V&A and Imperial War Museum, with a collector base that includes notable figures such as Jamie Oliver, Kate Moss, and Gordon Ramsay. In addition to his artistic success, Dave is committed to philanthropy, raising funds for causes like the NHS, Ukraine, and local London charities, including the Tottenham food bank.
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Dave Buonaguidi, better known as The Real Hackney Dave, is a British contemporary artist recognised for his bold and innovative screen prints. Combining vintage imagery with modern, often humorous text, his works bridge nostalgia and contemporary commentary. Before becoming an artist, Dave spent over three decades in advertising, co-founding creative agencies and working as the Creative Director for Channel 4. His transition into the art world reflects his passion for blending storytelling with visual art.
Dave’s art stands out for its use of vintage materials such as old maps, postcards, and other ephemera, which he overlays with striking typographic phrases in bold, vibrant colours. His work often features fluorescent inks and playful or thought-provoking text, creating a juxtaposition that challenges the viewer to reconsider familiar imagery. Each piece is a conversation starter, blending historical context with contemporary ideas.
After a successful career in advertising, Dave sought a more personal and hands-on creative outlet. He discovered screen printing during a workshop at Print Club London, where he found a way to combine his love of design, text, and visual storytelling. This pivotal moment led him to pursue art full-time, using his expertise in communication to create works that resonate with a broad audience.
The excellent podcast A Class Of Their Own recently featured Dave which is well worth watching or listening to, to find out more about Dave's fascinating career.
Dave’s work often explores themes of nostalgia, modern consumerism, and social commentary. By repurposing vintage materials and combining them with bold, contemporary phrases, his pieces invite reflection on the contrast between past and present. His use of humour and satire adds an engaging layer to his commentary, making his art accessible and relatable to a wide audience.
Yes, Dave has been involved in several high-profile exhibitions, including solo shows like "Dave Buonaguidi Is Always A Good Idea," where he showcased his signature screen prints on vintage maps. His art has also been featured in prominent art fairs and is part of private collections around the world. Through collaborations and exhibitions, Dave continues to make an impact in the contemporary art scene.
