Iconic Graphic Designer and Artist Behind The Sex Pistols, Jamie Reid, Passes Away at Age 76

Renowned Punk Aesthetic Pioneer and Graphic Designer Jamie Reid Passes Away at 76

The influential artist and graphic designer who left an indelible mark on punk culture through his work with the Sex Pistols, Jamie Reid, has sadly passed away at the age of 76.

His gallerist, John Marchant, confirmed the news of his demise, describing Reid as an “artist, iconoclast, anarchist, punk, hippie, rebel, and romantic.” Reid’s creative legacy lives on, survived by his cherished daughter Rowan, beloved granddaughter Rose, and an immense artistic heritage.

Reid’s creative journey intersected with the future manager of the Sex Pistols, Malcolm McLaren, during their time at Croydon Art School. Their collaboration birthed iconic artwork for the punk band.

Among Reid’s most celebrated creations are the vibrant designs that graced Sex Pistols’ album covers. Notably, the pink and yellow text on their sole album, “Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols,” and the controversial hit single “God Save the Queen,” famously banned by the BBC. The latter featured a defaced Cecil Beaton portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.

Reid’s artistic contributions extended to the “Pretty Vacant” single, where he provided a shattered empty picture frame, and “Holidays in the Sun,” for which he altered a comic strip. His poster for the single “Anarchy in the UK” provocatively portrayed a torn Union Jack.

In the later stages of his career, Reid collaborated with fellow artist Shepard Fairey and lent his support to impactful movements such as Occupy and Pussy Riot.

While details about his survivors remain limited, Jamie Reid’s transformative impact on art and culture remains a vibrant testament to his creativity and rebellion.