Russell Young

Born on 13 March 1959 in Yorkshire, England, Young had a difficult childhood. He was placed in foster care shortly after birth, spent time in a nunnery, and was adopted as an infant. At just 15, he gained admission to art college after lying about his age, studying photography, film, graphic design, and drawing before moving to London to pursue a creative career. 

Young first achieved recognition as a music photographer, capturing early performances by bands such as Bauhaus, R.E.M., and The Smiths. He also photographed major musicians including George Michael, Morrissey, Björk, Bruce Springsteen, and Bob Dylan. His photography for George Michael's Faith album became one of the defining album covers of the 1980s. He later directed numerous music videos before transitioning to fine art. 

In the early 2000s, Young established himself as a fine artist with his Pig Portraits series, followed by celebrated collections such as Dirty Pretty Things, Helter Skelter, and The West. His works frequently depict cultural icons including Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Muhammad Ali, and Elizabeth Taylor, using glittering diamond dust and bold color to question celebrity, power, and the myths of American culture. 

Russell Young's artwork has been exhibited internationally and has appeared at major auction houses including Sotheby's, Christie's, and Phillips. His works are held in prominent private collections around the world, and he continues to live and work in California.