Meet The Artist: Paper Frank, A Prolific Visual Artist Bringing His Whimsical Surrealism to Blink

Frank ‘Paper’ Dunson was raised on anime, video games and hip-hop. His cartoonish, surrealist pieces pop with vibrant colors, impeccable linework and signature motifs that resonate with people across the globe.

A highly sought-after visual artist, Paper Frank works with physical and digital mediums, moving seamlessly between acrylics and animation. His works often use unexpected juxtapositions and biomorphic shapes with a childlike quality.

Born in 1990, the partially colorblind artist had a rocky upbringing, but found a way to channel his pain in high school art class. With the encouragement and tough love of two of his high school teachers, Paper Frank became disciplined and began to take his art seriously.

During his skate rat days, the artist was approached by a local New Era Cap shop about hanging some of his artwork in the store. Amazed at the number of people who showed up to see his work, Paper Frank realized art wasn’t just something he was good at—it was something he could turn into his livelihood.

The Atlanta-based artist had minimal formal training. Mostly self-taught, Paper Frank immersed himself in the art world. From tattooing to murals to commercial designs, he’s learned it all along the way. The influence of contemporary Japanese art, manga and anime is apparent in his energetic works. 

His professional career began as a tattoo artist at City of Ink in Atlanta, where he attracted a cult-like following of fans across the country. Now only working with private tattoo clients, Paper Frank is expanding his reach into the commercial art world.

National retailers and numerous Atlanta-based businesses have collaborated with the artist. He’s known for his popup gallery showings, impromptu art auctions on Instagram, and collabs with brands like Paramount Pictures, Coca Cola and MCM Worldwide.

In early 2022, Paper Frank teamed up with Blink by Chubb to release a limited-edition t-shirt. Given total creative freedom, Paper Frank transformed Blink’s ice cream cone logo into a bold, bright scene. In the design, each scoop is no longer a scoop. They’re creatures clearly with adventure on their minds. Colored like candy and covered in sprinkles, the 3-scooped cone makes you look twice.

What the Bl*nk are you waiting for?

Follow him on IG: Paper Frank

Support the artist: Get Paper Frank’s limited edition tee today.