Stolen Time. Paintings by Richard Heys

June 30th - July 31st

‘The title “Stolen Time” relates to many things: the pandemic as well as the time that was gifted to us, as the whole world was forced to pause. The paintings were driven by the shocks and concerns of the pandemic and the crises faced by the world and the earth – fear of death and through this a greater connection to, and celebration of, life. There is an ecstasy to this series, a sense of drama and otherworldly visits – uncanny and essential. I experienced these paintings as visitors - their presence was there with me, rolling through the studio like the rhythms of a great tide.

Looking back over the past two years I realise that this is the most extensive and long term engagement I have had with a particular theme and group of paintings. I’ve been told that artists thrive among restrictions and I found this to be true. The enforced privacy and isolation of the first and subsequent lockdowns meant the studio became a haven and the work took on a life of its own. Soon my language as a painter became clearer, the silence seeming all the louder in-between these many works, inculcating wonderful moments in paint.’

Click here for a PDF about Richard’s Stolen Time paintings

Gallery of Works