The Art of Gonzo: Johnny Depp’s work shines in the “Fear and Loathing” Exhibition
Few collaborations in modern art and culture rival the electric synergy between Johnny Depp, Hunter S. Thompson, and Ralph Steadman. Their bond, forged through a shared defiance of convention, has left an indelible mark on film, literature, and art. For Depp, portraying Thompson in Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas was more than a role—it was a journey into the soul of a friend and creative force. Living in Thompson’s basement, he absorbed every nuance of the writer’s brilliance, while Steadman’s explosive illustrations brought Gonzo journalism vividly to life.
Depp & Steadman in 2014 (CREDIT: CHARLIE PAUL)
Now, this extraordinary connection takes center stage at the “Fear and Loathing” exhibition at Aspen Collective Gallery. Running from December 28, 2024, to February 12, 2025, the show unites Depp’s paintings, Thompson’s “Gunshot Art,” and Steadman’s iconic illustrations. This exhibition is more than an homage—it’s a celebration of the chaotic brilliance that defined a movement.
Depp’s inclusion in the “Fear and Loathing” exhibition marks a new chapter in his relationship with Thompson and Steadman. On display are six of Depp’s original paintings, offering an intimate glimpse into his creative psyche. These vibrant works reflect his admiration for Thompson and Steadman while channeling the raw emotion and rebellious spirit synonymous with Gonzo journalism.
Throughout the exhibition, it’s clear that the original pieces of works from all three artists are deeply personal. Each painting acts as a visual love letter to the chaos and brilliance that defined the collaborations between Depp, Thompson and Steadman. The paintings resonate with the same energy Depp brought to his portrayal of Thompson—unfiltered, bold, and unapologetically authentic.
Aspen: A Gonzo Haven
Aspen, Colorado, holds a special place in the Gonzo narrative. Thompson called nearby Woody Creek home, and his presence shaped Aspen’s cultural fabric. Hosting the exhibition in this historic setting pays tribute to the origins of Thompson’s radical spirit. The Aspen Collective Gallery’s curator, D.J. Watkins, recognized this connection, curating a show that not only celebrates the past but also inspires new artistic rebellion.
Celebrating a Legacy
The exhibition opened with a public reception on December 28, 2024, drawing fans, art enthusiasts, and curious visitors. Attendees were invited to immerse themselves in a world where chaos meets genius, experiencing the defiant spirit of Gonzo firsthand. The show is not just a celebration of Thompson, Steadman, and Depp’s contributions—it’s an invitation for a new generation to embrace the unorthodox and challenge creative boundaries.
Johnny Depp’s role in this exhibition reaffirms his place in the Gonzo legacy—not just as an actor, but as an artist and torchbearer of the movement’s fearless ethos. Through his paintings, Depp continues to honor the unrelenting spirit of his late friend and collaborator, ensuring that the creative fire ignited by Thompson and Steadman burns on.