3D and the Art of Massive Attack

Book excerpt: The Vinyl Factory presents 3D and the art of Massive Attack by Robert del Naja (aka 3D) a 300-page 12"x12" hardback reversible book format with two different covers starting at the past or the present (with screen printed front covers) on the visual history of the artist and his band who have sold over 11 million records worldwide. Compiled and designed by 3D using images from a personal archive and original artifacts scanned by the artist for the record. Robert's artwork has come to define the iconic style of his band and the book explores their visual history, presenting both familiar and previously unseen work, from his influential graffiti and stencil art in the Wild Bunch-era of the 80s to Massive Attack cover designs and paste-ups and paintings. Also included is his work made in collaboration with Nick Knight, Tom Hingston, Judy Blame and Michael Nash Associates, as well as unseen photographs documenting Del Naja's ongoing LED work with United Visual ArtistsUnited Visual Artists, and his recent work with filmmaker Adam Curtis. The 300-page book also features an in-depth interview with the artist, where he describes the development of the band's artwork and record sleeve designs, as well as offering insight into his process and inspirations. Del Naja's background as a graffiti artist has shaped his evolving aesthetic, as well as a strong ethos of do it yourself creativity. His instincts as an artist were forged in an atmosphere of spontaneity and innovation - from making flyers to throwing warehouse parties - and this way of working informed the first record sleeves he created. Inspired by magazine culture and comics, 3D drew on wide-ranging influences, from New Yorks hip-hop scene and Japanese graphics, Jean-Michel Basquiats cultural juxtapositions to Warhols pop imagery, politics and punk.