Backgroundcamel

Backgroundcamel is the alias artist, Ben, chooses to create work under. Ben was created in North East, England, in 1987, by Ruth and Danny Gilchrist. He currently resides and practices in South East London.

Visual Artist / Drummer / Mixologist

2009 – BA Fine Art Degree – First Class Hons

2023 – MA Visual Practice Degree – Fine Art pathway – Distinction

Backgroundcamel creates art under an alias to remove himself and ego. He invites the viewer to take ownership and form their own interpretation. The intention is to create art that stands alone – exciting the senses.

The artist’s work tends to be bright, bold, geometric, and abstract (both visually and intellectually). Aspiring to bring joy and inspiration to the viewer, his preference is to create long-lasting, site-specific, pieces for public spaces. This creates the opportunity for many people to experience his art.

Ben’s artwork is heavily influenced by music. The main style that he works in was created when attempting to visualise the music genre Chiptune. Unnatural colours are his interpretation of the computer-like notes. Held together by hard, straight, black lines are how he sees the beat. Most pieces take their title from lyrics of tunes playing during the creative process of that artwork.

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Other influences include architecture (particularly Brutalism), stained glass, retro video games, early 00s Emo/Skate/Punk cultures, and art movements such as Cubism, Pop Art, Street Art, Minimalism, and De Stijl.

You can find paintings by Backgroundcamel on permanent display on the ground floor of The Baltic Quarter, PROTO, NE8 3DF and various locations within The John Marley Centre, NE15 6TT.

Backgroundcamel is a proud member of 24NE Art Collective. Our gallery will be opening in the city centre of Sunderland on 20th November 2025. You will find some of his latest works for sale at 24NE Gallery, 2 Fawcett Street, Sunderland, SR1 1SJ.