Barnaby Wills

Biography of Barnaby Wills

Barnaby Wills was born in 1981 in Norwich, United Kingdom. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Fine Arts from the University of the West of England, Bristol. Wills has participated in numerous group and solo exhibitions across the United Kingdom, advancing his painting practice in various ways.

In 2022, Wills exhibited his artworks in the "Epitome" exhibition at the Holy Art Gallery in London, and in 2021, he showcased his works at La Fenice Art Gallery in Hong Kong with the exhibition "Empire of the Sun." Additionally, his artwork was selected for the "New Era" exhibition at Art Number 23 Gallery in London in 2021. Notably, he was named one of the Highly Commended artists at the "Cosimo Emerging Artist Prize" in 2023.

Barnaby Wills's Art Style

The artist utilizes painting and mixed media to reassemble images and abstractions, reflecting aspects of the surrounding world. His oil-based works are characterized by abstract constructions of shapes with bold color sequences. Wills's paintings introduce a visual language referencing nuances from abstract painting and pattern design. They provide a glimpse into an interconnected world of shapes, using both curved and straight lines to enhance interest and impact. When exploring themes and concepts, Wills often frees himself from limitations, experimenting with different possibilities for individual works or series.

In the creative process, Wills considers ideas related to geographical exploration and discovery. He investigates imagery that communicates and resonates with the viewer, exploring practical elements of painting and draughtsmanship to create a stimulating process.

Exhibitions of Barnaby Wills

Solo Exhibitions:

• 2023: "Submergence," Anteros Gallery, Anteros Arts Foundation, Norwich;
• 2018: "Purpose and Position," Surface Gallery, Nottingham;
• 2017: "The Mariner’s Help Desk," Anteros Gallery, Anteros Arts Foundation, Norwich;
• 2015: "Count Me In," Anteros Gallery, Anteros Arts Foundation, Norwich.

Group Exhibitions:

• 2022: "Epitome," The Holy Art Gallery, London;
• 2021: "The Empire of the Sun," La Fenice Art Gallery, Hong Kong;
• 2021: "Threshold 2021," D Contemporary Gallery, London;
• 2021: "New Era," virtual exhibition Art Number 23 Gallery, London;
• 2021: "Rebirth," virtual exhibition The Holy Art Gallery, London;
• 2019: "Chester Art Fair," Wildfire Gallery (stand) Chester;
• 2019: "Wildfire Brighton," Wildfire Gallery, Brighton;
• 2019: "For the love of art," Elizabeth James Gallery, London;
• 2017: "Electric Open," Electric Picture House, Arts Co-operative, Congleton, Cheshire;
• 2015: "Convergence 15," Stew Gallery, Norwich.