LIVES: A Collection of Narrative Portraits by UK Artist Andy Farr

05/07/2024

Author: Grace Newman

LIVES is a unique collection of narrative portraits that offers a poignant exploration of resilience and growth in the face of adversity, rooted deeply in personal experiences and the powerful conversations Farr has had with individuals recovering from trauma.

The image 'Carousel', above left, is a painting from the collection that means the most to Andy Farr. It explores feelings and memories relating to his father's mental health. Andy says "He never really talked about how it felt during the mania or depression, however, I have talked with a number of people who are bipolar. They described the euphoria of the mania...".

The painting on the right 'Breaking Free' was created for an exhibition in Vienna as a sister piece to 'Carousel'. This piece is inspired by Andy's own life, showing a positive, optimistic outlook.

The Story Behind the Art

Each piece in the "LIVES" collection tells a vivid story, capturing the raw emotions and transformative journeys of those who have faced significant challenges. These artworks are not just paintings; they are visual narratives that speak volumes about human endurance and the capacity to heal and grow. Andy Farr's work is informed by his extensive academic background, including his Master of Arts from Coventry University, and his collaborative projects with institutions like the Institute of Mental Health Nottingham, With-You, and DayOne.

A Dual Exhibition Experience

The "LIVES" exhibition was presented in two formats: a physical exhibition and a virtual gallery. The physical exhibition was hosted at the Black & White Gallery, part of the LTB Showrooms, located at 1A Warwick Row, Coventry CV1 1EX. This gallery was open to the public from June 3rd to June 30th, 2024. Visitors to the physical exhibition could experience the depth and detail of Farr's portraits first-hand, surrounded by the ambiance of the historic venue. 

You can still see Farr's collection in the UK Artists virtual artwork UK gallery 
Several pieces of artwork are for sale.

About Andy Farr

Andy Farr is an award-winning artist based in Coventry, known for his evocative and thought-provoking work. His journey into the world of trauma portraiture is not only an artistic endeavor but also an academic one. Recently, Andy began a PhD at Nottingham University, where he is delving into the therapeutic benefits of trauma portraiture. His research aims to uncover how creating and viewing art can facilitate healing for those who have experienced trauma.

Explore the "LIVES" virtual exhibition today and immerse yourself in these powerful narratives of recovery and growth. Whether you visit online or had the chance to experience the physical exhibition, Andy Farr's work promises to leave a lasting impact on all who encounter it.