Overview
- BSMT Space, a Dalston gallery that worked with the artist, posted an Instagram tribute over the weekend announcing Helch’s untimely passing and prompting widespread online tributes.
- Several outlets and acquaintances have named the artist as Michael Purdy, 34, but that identification and the cause of death have not been independently confirmed.
- Helch became known for giant roller-painted block-letter tags across London and on motorway and rail viaducts, including high-profile pieces near Windsor and on the M4, M1 and M25.
- In recent years he crossed into the gallery world: his first prints sold out quickly, he held a solo show with BSMT Space and he published a photo book documenting international roller work.
- His death has reignited debate about the value and legality of large-scale graffiti, the public cost of removing tags from transport infrastructure, and the artist’s contested place between street practice and the art market.