Andrew Hirst

Artist, Editor and Author

Based in Beccles, Suffolk, Andrew Hirst is a multi-talented artist whose creative career of over 30 years spans painting, print, design, and editorial work. Born in Great Yarmouth in 1973 and raised on the Mag council Estate before moving with his parents to one of the areas most exclusive roads, Andrew’s early life instilled in him a deep understanding of the impermanence of success and the value of hard work.

After a General Art and Design degree at the Norfolk Institute of Art and Design, Andrew ventured into the security industry, where he worked for the family business across various roles, from surveillance and close protection to nightclub security, at times on the notorious Great Yarmouth Seafront. This period in the security sector formed a stark contrast to his creative roots but ultimately became part of the rich tapestry of experiences that would inform his artistic journey.

Andrew’s return to the arts began with signwriting, training under masters Bob Cushing and Andy Smith. His career evolved as he transitioned into print and design, working for companies such as Ashleigh Print Ltd, Archant, and R.R. Donnelley (RRD), where he rose to the corporate heights as Head of Client Services for Print Management in the UK and Europe.

Today, Andrew is the editor and creative lead of Places&Faces magazine, a monthly title that continues to thrive under his direction which has been in print for more than 14 years. His editorial career includes notable achievements such as the Archant Team of the Year award for three consecutive years and a nomination as Business Support Person of the Year in 2002.

As an artist, Andrew primarily works with gouache on canvas but also incorporates oils, modeling paste, and gold leaf—techniques inspired by his time in the signwriting industry. His style is a vibrant fusion of modernistic, realism, pop, and street art, drawing influences from movements like cubism, impressionism, surrealism, and contemporary artists like Banksy and Tracey Emin.

In addition to his visual art, Andrew has written and illustrated two children’s books, A Present for Santa and A Dog Called No, which are an ode to each of his sons and both available on Amazon. He has also authored hundreds of articles, covering a wide range of topics from food to football and fashion to finance.

Despite his diverse creative accomplishments, Andrew remains focused on one thing: producing art that is enjoyed. His life story—growing up in a working-class family, experiencing financial highs and lows, and working in both blue-collar and creative sectors—has given him a unique perspective on the world, one that informs his art and writing. His future ambitions are simple yet profound: to continue creating and sharing his work, always with the goal of bringing enjoyment to others.