REBELS AND LEGENDS - An Exhibition by Adrian Thompson-Boyce
The first physical Exhibition of 2021 at Blackwater Gallery
With a halt on all physical events over the last 18 months, ‘Rebels and Legends’ is the first in person experience we have been able to host since the start of the pandemic.
‘Rebels and Legends’ is an exhibition of icons from the last century. From musical heavyweights such as David Bowie and The Beatles, to masters of the silver screen including Marilyn Monroe and James Dean.
The featured a selection of work from UK artist Adrian Thompson-Boyce. A portrait artist who specialises in the use of graphite and charcoal, Boyce also often embellishes his portraits with additional elements. Incorporating delicate gold and silver leaf, watercolour washes, or bright acrylics and inks to accentuate the features of the subject.
The ‘Rebels and Legends’ collection brings together the detailed and nuanced nature of working with graphite, and the tactile and often unique nature of working with original aged papers. Boyce has collected a series of magazines, newspapers, and documents to use as the base of his portraiture. Each piece is drawn directly onto the original pages, some of which date back over 50 years.
This gives a fantastically original and unique aesthetic to each portrait, every page has aged differently, some of the photography used on the articles may not be in circulation any more. It’s this layering of technique, style, and composition that make the ‘Rebels and Legends’ of special interest to fans of these famous icons.
Based in our gallery space in the heart of Cardiff Bay, the exhibition brought together a fusion of art and music. With a curated DJ set to enhance the event, a special playlist was selected to uniquely complement each portrait on show. With views overlooking the Cardiff Bay waterfront, guests were welcomed with a drinks reception and an appearance by Adrian Thompson-Boyce where he discussed this collection and his inspiration for it.
With more exhibitions lined up for the rest of 2021, we welcome you to join us at our next event. If you were unable to attend the opening night of the ‘Rebels and Legends’ exhibition but like to view more you can shop the complete collection here.
