Brighton’s most interesting newcomer in the art world, No Walls Gallery has carved a growing reputation as a vital platform for local art talent, presumably using the mark-up from the Hirsts and Banksys they sell to help finance their perhaps commercially riskier ventures. Brighton artist Jim McElvaney might be messing with the parameters of portraiture, but there’s definitely nothing inaccessible about this stunning work – his third exhibition for No Walls.
A mix of paintings, drawings and prints, this collection goes far beyond merely capturing a likeness. Impressionist portraiture is nothing new for sure, but the invitation to look, not only beyond the subject’s gaze, but also into the psyche and emotions of its creator, is what makes this an essential view. A massively promising young artist, McElvaney’s hometown showing precedes outings to Seoul, Moscow and London. See it while you can.
No Walls Gallery, Prince Albert St, until Sun 23rd
WORDS BY NICK COQUET
PAINTING BY JIM MCELVANEY
