David Shrigley is known for his quirky, humorous, and often darkly satirical illustrations and sculptures. His unique style, characterised by simple line drawings paired with witty text, offers sharp commentary on everyday absurdities and human behaviour.
Shrigley’s art bridges the gap between humour and serious thought, making him one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary art. If you’re looking to buy a humorous piece of art, you’re in the right place.
Buy David Shrigley's art with Grove Gallery – prices start at just £1,800.
David Shrigley, the British artist known for his offbeat humour and distinctive visual style, has carved a niche in the art world with his deceptively simple, yet deeply thought-provoking works.
Born in Macclesfield in 1968 and later graduating from Glasgow School of Art, Shrigley’s art spans drawing, sculpture, and installation, but it is his playful, hand-drawn illustrations – often accompanied by witty, deadpan text – that have earned him a cult following. His work examines the absurdities of life with a blend of sharp wit and surrealism, capturing moments of human vulnerability and societal critique with a lightness that belies its depth.
Shrigley’s art stands apart for its accessibility and relatability. His bold, naive drawings and pithy phrases often reflect the inner thoughts we hesitate to share, tapping into universal feelings of confusion, frustration, and amusement at the strangeness of modern life. From his iconic Really Good sculpture – a giant thumbs-up installed in London’s Trafalgar Square – to his countless doodles on life’s small absurdities, Shrigley invites viewers to engage with the world through a lens of humour and contemplation.
David Shrigley’s work is a refreshing reminder that art doesn’t always need to be serious to make a serious point. His witty observations and minimalist drawings may seem lighthearted, but they carry profound reflections on human nature and society, making him one of the most unique and thought-provoking artists of his generation. Whether in a gallery or on a t-shirt, Shrigley’s art connects with people on an instinctive level, making us laugh, think, and, perhaps, see the world a little differently.
David Shrigley Art FAQs
How much does David Shrigley's art cost?
It depends on the piece – for example, limited edition silkscreens can cost over £4,000, but prints can cost around £2,000. The most expensive David Shrigley piece sold at auction for $44,100. You can buy David Shrigley’s screen prints here at Grove Gallery for anything from £1,800 to over £16,000. If you opt for a high-value piece, our art consultants are on hand to help you.
What is David Shrigley’s most famous piece?
Shrigley's most famous piece is Really Good. You can find this public sculpture in London, on Trafalgar Square's Fourth Plinth. The piece features a hand making a thumbs-up gesture (with a really long thumb!). Created in response to the Brexit decision, it blends humour and critique — classic Shrigley!
What does David Shrigley do outside of art?
Shrigley has ventured into other creative realms such as publishing illustrated books, producing music videos, and collaborating on animations. His work has gained international recognition, with exhibitions across the globe and a nomination for the prestigious Turner Prize in 2013.
What is David Shrigley’s process?
Shrigley creates various types of art, including drawings, sculptures, animations, and photography. In terms of drawings, he rarely plans his art. Instead, he begins with a piece of blank paper and a list of things to draw.
