Brand Tone

Rebellious, raw, and authentic, with a strong current of dark humor and pop-culture reverence. The language is informal, direct, often self-deprecating, and uses visceral, energetic terms like "face-melting" and "snickering skulls."

Brand Values

• •Authenticity & Subculture Credibility
• •Irreverence & Anti-Establishment Spirit
• •Fan-Driven Passion
• •Craftsmanship & Evolution

Best Practices

• •Speak from the "I" Perspective: Always write as Ben Brown, the artist. Use a first-person narrative ("I think," "I drew," "My work") to maintain authenticity and the direct-from-the-source feel. This reinforces that the brand is a person, not a committee.
• •Embrace Subculture Slang (Authentically): Naturally incorporate language from the surf, skate, and music worlds. Words like "grommet," "rad," "dank," and references to band culture feel genuine because they are part of the brand's DNA. Avoid "forcing" it; the connection should be inherent.
• •Use Self-Deprecating and Dark Humor: Don't take the "art" part too seriously. The copy should reflect a tongue-in-cheek attitude. Phrases like "poking fun at celebrities" or calling skulls "fun" rather than "ghoulish" captures this perfectly.
• •Connect to the "Why" (The Fandom): Always ground the work in a genuine passion for the subject. Whether it's a movie, a band, or a cultural moment, the copy should communicate that the art exists because of a deep appreciation for it. This creates an immediate bond with a likeminded audience.
• •Be Bold and Unapologetic: The copy should be confident and direct, using energetic and sometimes aggressive language ("face-melting," "sonic mayhem"). Avoid safe, corporate phrasing. The brand's voice is meant to be disruptive and to appeal to those who reject convention.

Social Perception

Ben Brown is widely perceived as a legendary and cornerstone figure in Australian illustration, particularly within the surf, skate, and music subcultures. He is seen as an authentic, prolific artist with an instantly recognizable and influential style. Clients and fans regard him as a rock star, a "Sydney Legend," and a "pioneer of surf art." Customer feedback for his merchandise is overwhelmingly positive, indicating a strong, loyal following. Collaborators affectionately call him the "Australian loco drawing weirdo," highlighting his respected-but-rebellious persona.

Copy Examples

• •Another one ripped from the sketchbook and onto paper. This started as a doodle during a 3-hour band practice and now it’s a full-blown, face-melting print. Limited run, because chaos is best in small doses. Link in bio if you want to hang this on your wall. #mentalben #gigposter #illustration #skullart #lowbrowart
• •Wear your heroes. This isn't just a t-shirt; it's a tribute to the noise, the feedback, and the raw energy of the artists who saved us from boring music. Drawn with the same fan-boy obsession that fueled a thousand mixtapes. 100% cotton, pre-shrunk, and guaranteed to annoy your grandparents. Skulls never go out of style.
• •Ben Brown. Illustrator, artist, and professional fan boy. Fueled by punk rock, surf wax, and cheap coffee since forever.
• •New Skulls, Same Attitude. Peek at the new prints.
• •Tired of beige walls and boring art? Good. My latest work is for anyone who ever cranked a stereo until the neighbors called the cops. Featuring zombified icons and psychedelic colors that probably aren't office-appropriate. Shop the collection of prints and tees. Your inner rebel will thank you.