Strummin 999

Joe Strummer, the frontman of The Clash, was one of the most influential voices of the punk movement in the 1970s. I chose to create this portrait because one of the things I’ve always appreciated about punk is its core message: that anyone can take part. There is a raw honesty in that idea. The Clash’s music, with its strong reggae influence, inspired my use of green and orange throughout the piece. These colours reflect both energy and cultural fusion.

In the base layer of the painting, I embedded the words “London’s Burning” in thick paint. It is a reference to one of their early lyrics, but also a way of grounding the work in the social and political tensions of that era in Britain.

The composition has a blocky, flag-like structure. I wanted it to echo national identity and unrest, which were central to both The Clash and the times they came out of. In the upper right corner, I included a green Union Jack. This was an intentional break from tradition to highlight the role of reggae music, immigration, and Black British culture in shaping modern Britain.

On the left side, two circles—one black and one white—represent the racial tensions the UK was experiencing at the time. This ties into lyrics like “white youth, Black youth, better find another solution.” From a distance, the three circles form a triangle. This gesture references the other members of the band and introduces a subtle nod to Cubist structure.

Strummer’s jumpsuit features the number 999, drawn from one of his favourite stage outfits. In the UK, 999 is the emergency number, and here it symbolizes a sense of social urgency. The jumpsuit’s prison-like appearance adds another layer, suggesting Strummer’s willingness to stand up for his beliefs, even if it meant facing consequences.

To add texture and deepen the meaning of the piece, I burned a Clash record sleeve and worked some of the ashes into the painting. It became a literal interpretation of the idea behind “London’s Burning.”

In the lower right corner, I painted a spinning record that resembles the gold or platinum discs awarded to musicians. It is a small tribute and a gesture of recognition. I also included the words “Roots Rock Rebel,” a lyric from “(White Man) in Hammersmith Palais,” which is my favourite Clash song. That track speaks to class, politics, disillusionment, and the search for unity. These are themes that still feel incredibly relevant today.

I also decided to make a short video of this painting, set to the Hammersmith song. You can watch it here. 

Size: 48x60