About
Patrick Vale (b. 1980) is a British-born artist, illustrator, and muralist whose detailed cityscapes bridge fine art, architecture, and storytelling. Originally from Bristol, he studied at Central Saint Martins in London, where he developed a precision-driven freehand drawing style that has earned him international recognition. He now lives and works out of his studio in DUMBO, Brooklyn, New York City.
Foundations of a Practice
He first gained widespread attention in 2012 with Empire State of Pen, a time-lapse video capturing his freehand drawing of the Manhattan skyline from the Empire State Building. The film went viral, drawing praise for both its technical mastery and immersive portrayal of the city.
Pat is an obsessive draughtsman, constantly observing and drawing the world around him. His inquisitive eye seeks out beautiful, everyday human moments—often fleeting, always compelling.
His work is characterized by densely layered line work, ink, and intricate architectural detail. He often chooses elevated vantage points, composing sprawling urban panoramas that include everything from fire escapes and rooftop water towers to iconic landmarks. The result is both observational and immersive—viewers are invited to explore the cityscape, discovering both its grandeur and its hidden corners.
In his TEDx Talk, Patrick explores the relationship between art, architecture, and the act of drawing. He emphasizes the importance of observation, process, and embracing imperfection, reflecting his belief in creativity’s power to transform and deepen our understanding of the world.
Urban Narratives
Through his intricate cityscapes, Vale reminds us that art is not just about making something beautiful; it’s about engaging with the world in a more intentional, thoughtful, and human way.
Most recently, Pat completed a monumental mural in Philadelphia—commissioned for the SEPTA 8th Street Terminal corridor beneath the historic Lit Brothers building in Center City. The work is a sprawling visual narrative that celebrates the city’s iconic landmarks, rich history, and the daily rhythm of its people. Developed through firsthand observation and community engagement, the mural reflects Pat’s commitment to embedding place and humanity into his large-scale public work. The project received wide attention, including a video feature with @streetsdept on TikTok and coverage by 6ABC News, further cementing the mural’s role as a meaningful addition to Philadelphia’s public art landscape.
Pat’s reputation for capturing urban life has led to a wide range of creative partnerships, exhibitions, and collaborations. He has exhibited internationally, and in 2023, he collaborated with British fashion icon Sir Paul Smith on a limited-edition T‑shirt and held a solo exhibition, Dawn Two Cities, at Smith’s Mayfair gallery in London, as well as at his New York City store.
In 2024, he partnered with Chicago Cubs star Ian Happ and Gallery VICTOR on See What I See—a collaborative exhibition described as a love letter to Chicago, baseball, and the Cubs. As artist‑in‑residence throughout the summer, Pat brought the emotional rhythm of the city and the ballpark to life, blending sport, architecture, and community through his signature drawing style.
Creative Partnerships
He previously worked with Roman Mars, host of the acclaimed podcast 99% Invisible, on the debut book The 99% Invisible City, which became an instant New York Times bestseller.
He also collaborated with Björn Ulvaeus of the legendary pop group ABBA on You Are Who You Meet, a book of personal stories brought to life through Pat’s spontaneous, characterful illustrations. The result is a quirky and vibrant visual memoir.
Pat has a long-standing relationship with Apple and was honored to be featured in the launch campaign for the Apple Pencil for iPad—now the digital drawing tool of choice for artists around the world.
Selected Clients
Pat has collaborated with a wide range of global brands, institutions, and cultural figures across design, architecture, media, and publishing. His clients include:
Apple, ABBA, Sir Paul Smith, Nike, Tiffany & Co., The Economist, BBC, The Washington Post, Fortune Magazine, Empire Magazine, Surface Magazine, Eurostar, British Airways, Virgin, Volkswagen, Saatchi & Saatchi, Pentagram, RIBA, MGM, EATALY, Design Within Reach, Gensler, Fogarty Finger, The High Line (NYC), NeueHouse, Soho House, The Lighthouse, Andaz Hyatt, and Lawrence King Publishing, among others.