Sex Pistols artist Jamie Reid dies at age 76

The mind behind the iconic Sex Pistols artwork, Jamie Reid, has died aged 76.

A legend of the punk scene, Reid’s cause of death or any further details are yet to be released since the news was broken via Louder Than War.

Reid’s best-known work occurred throughout the height of the punk scene in late 70s Britain. He created artwork for Sex Pistols classics such as the pink and yellow Nevermind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols. His distinct décollage-style has since become intrinsically linked to British punk.

RIP Jamie Reid, best known as the designer for the classic Sex Pistols era 1976-79. His ability to render complex ideas in eye catching visuals was their perfect accompaniment. He and I did a book together in 1987: it’s a good one pic.twitter.com/lyRSYy9L8N

— Jon Savage (@JonSavage1966) August 9, 2023

His art is displayed in illustrious galleries across the world, including Tate Britain, New York’s Museum of Modern Art and Houston’s Museum of Fine Art. While Reid is most renowned for his collages, he is also known for producing abstract paintings.

“RIP Jamie Reid”, said writer Jon Savage in a Twitter post. “His ability to render complex ideas in eye catching visuals was their perfect accompaniment. He and I did a book together in 1987: it’s a good one.”

The death was confirmed by his gallerist John Marchant and Reid’s family. A statement described him as an “artist, iconoclast, anarchist, punk, hippie, rebel and romantic,” adding that “Jamie leaves behind a beloved daughter Rowan, a granddaughter Rose, and an enormous legacy.”