Viacole is proud to introduce the extraordinary talent of Nathan Preston, known in the art world as Preston Paperboy. A rising force in contemporary art, Preston brings a powerful blend of portraiture, neo-expressionism, and street art that captures the emotional complexity of modern life.
Born in Essex in 1992, Preston’s journey into the art world began unconventionally. While studying Architecture at the University of Brighton, he discovered that his true passion lay not in structure, but in storytelling through visual art. Since then, he has emerged as a self-taught painter and sculptor, capturing audiences worldwide with his raw, evocative works.
A Unique Artistic Language: Between Realism and Expressionism
Preston Paperboy’s signature style draws from Abstract Expressionism, contemporary portraiture, and urban aesthetics, resulting in deeply personal and socially resonant works. Using paint, charcoal, facial fragments, crude lines, and layered text, each piece walks the line between chaos and control, emotion and observation.
“My work explores what makes us human—love, loss, envy, greed,” says Preston. “Every piece is a reflection of that inner tension.”
The “Smiler” Signature: A Personal Symbol of Growth
At the heart of Preston’s work lies the “Smiler” logo, a recurring motif that appears in every painting. The frowning face with dollar sign eyes, a sad smile, and overhead lines represents the artist’s journey:
- The tear and sad smile reflect past struggles with depression.
- The dollar sign eyes act as a warning against letting greed or ego dictate creativity.
- The lines overhead symbolize peace, clarity, and artistic growth.
This emblem, both personal and universal, has become a recognizable signature across Preston’s work.
International Recognition and Exhibitions
Preston Paperboy’s impact is growing rapidly. He has exhibited in major art hubs including London, Hong Kong, Miami, and Atlanta, with collectors and critics praising his ability to merge street culture with classical emotion.
Each painting features two subtle trademarks:
- A left eye, symbolizing the “window to the soul”
- A fragmented narrative inviting the viewer to complete the emotional story
Viacole x Preston Paperboy: A Partnership in Authentic Expression
At Viacole, we champion authentic, boundary-breaking artistry, and Preston Paperboy exemplifies just that. His work resonates deeply in a digital age, speaking to themes of vulnerability, identity, and resilience.
This collaboration marks a new chapter in Viacole’s ongoing mission to showcase bold, contemporary creatives who dare to disrupt the norm.