Born in Cape Town, South Africa in 1985, Struan Hopwood’s artistic journey began at a young age, driven by a passion for sketching that would come to define his career. After emigrating to Australia with his family in 2003, Struan pursued his creative interests through an Arts Degree and a diploma in Fine Art, further honing his craft. From his early days, Struan could often be found sketching in the margins of textbooks, doodling illustrations for his art portfolio instead of studying for exams. This innate creativity quickly evolved into a unique style, blending portraiture with whimsical line drawings using acrylic paint and coloured markers.

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Over time, Struan’s work expanded, moving beyond portraits to incorporate a diverse range of influences. His art began to draw from the worlds of street art, manga, grunge, and pop culture, all filtered through the lens of his refined illustration skills. Today, Struan’s pieces are marked by a vivid and energetic fusion of contemporary themes, from stylized skulls and vibrant animals to cartoon characters that evoke nostalgia. Layered with text and striking colours, his work speaks to a sense of both dystopia and optimism, capturing the juxtaposition of these contrasting emotions with a masterful eye for detail.

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Struan’s art often delves into sci-fi and technological realms, reflecting his fascination with the digital age and its influence on modern culture. His illustrations—whether inspired by manga, tattoo art, or street culture—blend the grit of urban aesthetics with the precision of fine art illustration. One of his most notable works, a tribute to the firefighters who saved homes during the Hepburn Springs bushfire of 2018, features a stylized depiction of a firefighter surrounded by Australian icons like kookaburras, marsupials, and cricket bats. This piece stands as a testament to Struan’s ability to intertwine local culture with global themes.

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Struan’s work has found homes around the world, with his distinctive style resonating with collectors in countries as diverse as the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, New Zealand, and South Africa. His pieces are sought after for their vibrancy, narrative depth, and ability to evoke emotion through bold, graphic elements and a fresh, playful perspective. Whether it’s the intricately painted skulls or the nostalgic characters from childhood cartoons, Struan’s art strikes a chord with audiences across the globe, making a powerful impact in both private and corporate collections.

In recent years, Struan has embarked on an exciting journey of artistic collaboration with his wife, Emma McAdam-Marmont. Their creative synergy has given rise to an entirely new dimension of work—one that bridges their individual styles to create compelling, collaborative pieces. Their shared explorations range from figurative works infused with graffiti influences to dreamlike landscapes and bold pop art-inspired creations. These collaborations reflect both innovation and harmony, offering a unique perspective on contemporary art that resonates deeply with viewers.

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Struan’s work continues to evolve, embracing new themes, techniques, and collaborations that push boundaries while staying true to his roots. His art remains a dynamic exploration of cultural influences, personal expression, and the power of storytelling, inviting viewers to connect with the world through his vibrant, emotive pieces.