The art piece “Stolen Goods,” designed and created by Liam Hopkins, carries a captivating backstory that adds depth and meaning to its creation. The inspiration behind this piece can be traced back around 17 years ago when a friend of Hopkins witnessed a person on the run from the police, clutching a bag in their hand. In an attempt to escape, the person jumped onto the canal path, and the chase ensued. As the police closed in, the fugitive discarded the bag into the canal. Despite their efforts, the police did not retrieve the bag.

Curiosity got the better of Hopkins’ friend, who decided to retrieve the discarded bag from the canal and investigate its contents. To their surprise, they discovered thousands of Benson and Hedges Gold cigarettes within the bag. Realizing that smoking the cigarettes was not a viable option, the friend intended to discard them. It was at this moment that Hopkins expressed his interest in the cigarettes, suggesting that he could repurpose them and create something meaningful.

Fifteen years later, Hopkins fulfilled his promise and brought his vision to life with the creation of “Stolen Goods.” This art piece features a mouse, carefully crafted using the cigarettes as the medium. By choosing the mouse as the subject, Hopkins establishes a connection to smoking and delves into the addictive and dark nature associated with it.

The cigarettes, initially intended for consumption and discarded as stolen goods, have been transformed into an art piece. This transformation serves as a commentary on the intricate relationship between addiction, temptation, and the allure of forbidden substances. By repurposing the stolen cigarettes, Hopkins breathes new life into them and invites viewers to reflect upon their own vices and the consequences they may carry.

Through “Stolen Goods,” Hopkins explores themes of temptation, personal choices, and the consequences that follow. The art piece stands as a testament to the transformative power of art, turning what was once an illicit act into an object of contemplation and reflection. It also prompts viewers to consider the broader implications of addiction and the intricate narratives that surround such experiences.

Overall, “Stolen Goods” carries a poignant backstory that adds layers of meaning to the art piece. Through the use of repurposed cigarettes and the image of a mouse, Hopkins invites viewers to engage with the complex themes of addiction, temptation, and the consequences of our actions.