Goldie’s studio in Kamala, Phuket has been a hive of activity recently, with a new art series in the making. We take a look at the ‘arrows’ collection and chart the artistic journey of this British cultural icon
By: Mia James
Growing up in England’s West Midlands, Clifford Price, better known by his stage name Goldie, had a challenging childhood to say the least. Bounced from foster home to foster home he found solace in art, graffiti to be precise, where he became a prominent figure in the UK’s burgeoning graffiti scene in the 1980s, known for his distinctive style and contributions to the subculture.
In his late 20s, he turned his creative attention to music and became renowned for his pivotal role in the development of ‘drum and bass’, a genre that emerged in the UK in the early 1990s.
Influenced by the breakbeat-driven sounds of hardcore and jungle, Goldie began experimenting with music production. His early collaborations with artists like 4hero and Rob Playford led to the creation of some of the genre’s pioneering and most influential tracks.
Goldie’s debut album, Timeless, released in 1995, solidified his status as a founder of ‘drum and bass’. The album was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its innovation and depth. Tracks like Inner City Life and Sea of Tears showcased Goldie’s ability to blend intricate rhythms with soulful melodies, creating a sound that was both futuristic and deeply rooted in the realities of urban life.
Now based in Phuket, Goldie has continued to explore visual art, returning to his roots in graffiti and painting. His artworks often reflect the same energy and intensity found in his music, combining vibrant colours with bold, expressive lines. In 2017, Goldie was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his contributions to music, art, and young people, highlighting his multifaceted impact on British culture.
While best known for his contributions to music, Goldie’s creative talents are diverse. He has acted in several films, including Snatch (a Guy Ritchie comedy about a diamond heist) and The World Is Not Enough (the 19th James Bond film starring Pierce Brosnan), where he played memorable roles that showcased his charisma and versatility.
For the better part of a decade, fans have been more likely to spot his signature gold capped teeth on the island of Phuket rather than the British Isles. Making his home near Kamala Beach, Goldie has been diving deep into his art with a recording and painting studio at his house and alternating between musician and artist depending on the season. While February through June sees him working on musical pursuits, October through December tends to be a time for painting, creating new collections and completing commissioned work for private clients.
Though Goldie may be more widely known for his beats, he’s actually been painting since he was 17 and Phuket has proven to offer a source of space, time and inspiration for him to take to the canvas. When in Phuket he says he has the time to deconstruct and process other experiences while also learning new techniques and drawing inspiration from the beauty and culture of Thailand.
With his new ‘arrows’ series Goldie has gone back to his graffiti grassroots where he expresses life’s journeys with a series of bold and colourful arrows, always pointing forwards or upwards. “I also wanted to create art that would fit nicely with contemporary living, less intrusive imagery that blends easily with the modern home.”
GOLDIE on…
…his go-to restaurant on Phuket: Absolute favourite is Rustic Eatery & Bar on the quiet, southern end of Patong Beach
…the food he misses from the UK: A proper bacon and egg sandwich – I can still get my cup of Yorkshire Tea every morning
…the craziest thing about living in Thailand: No one seems to agree how roundabouts work when driving – everyone goes or gives right-of-way at different times!
…beer, ice or no ice?: Sake
…phad thai or phad see ew?: Phad grapao
…the best beach on Phuket: Kamala Beach at 5:30 – 6:00 hours in the morning
…the best gift from Phuket to take home: One of my ‘arrows’ paintings LOL!
…his favourite yoga pose: Warrior one
…where to escape on a holiday: We have a secret holiday home on a quiet secluded island, not telling!
…one thing people don’t know about him: I’ve been painting for 35 years…and play backgammon religiously
…what he wants to be most remembered for: I want to leave a legacy of really beautiful art and music