
Barnaby Wills
Born: 1981
Hometown: Norwich
Based in: Norwich
Born: 1981
Hometown: Norwich
Based in: Norwich
Barnaby Wills works with painting and mixed media and has exhibited his artworks around the United Kingdom and in Hong Kong. The artist uses painting and mixed media to re-assemble images and abstractions to help reflect aspects of the world that surrounds us. He works on oil paintings that are based upon abstract constructions of shapes with bold colour sequences. The work helps the viewer understand a visual language that references nuances from abstract painting and pattern design. The paintings offer a view into a whole world of inter-connected shapes that use both curved and straight lines, helping to enliven interest and impact. When exploring themes and concepts he often frees himself from limitations and explores different possibilities for one work, or a series of works.
Wills studied Fine Arts at U.W.E in Bristol, in the UK and graduated in 2005. Wills has recently been included in exhibitions with the Holy Art gallery, in London, D Contemporary in London and La Fenice Gallery in Hong Kong as well as many others around the United Kingdom.
'Art is itself a tool for the growth of communication and understanding'
What inspires you?
Historical reference points within abstract and contemporary painting
Describe your creative process.
I begin by having an idea that then translates into the beginnings of the painting. I then organise the idea with drawings and colour combinations. And I then take the appropriate steps to carry out the painting, using often flat colours turn a blank canvas into an abstract contemporary work of art. I
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Hard edged, abstract, impactful
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
Sol Lewitt, Carmen Herrera, Frank Stella, Peter Halley
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
Spectacles
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
A fellow artist once told me to follow my own interests.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Old modern art books, instagram, magazines, comics, illustrations and taking a walk around either urban or natural surroundings.
Education
The University of the West of England
United Kingdom, 2005
Norwich School of Art and Design
United Kingdom, 2002
Awards
Cosimo Peoples Choice award, Highly commended
2023
Exhibitions
S B Art Gallery, Group exhibition
United Kingdom, 2024
Wave, The Holy Art Gallery
United Kingdom, 2024
Submergence, Anteros Main Gallery
United Kingdom, 2023
Epitome, The Holy Art gallery
United Kingdom, 2022
The Empire of the Sun
Hong Kong, 2021
Threshold 2021, D contemporary
United Kingdom, 2021
New Era, Art Number 23
United Kingdom, 2021
Rebirth, The Holy Art gallery
United Kingdom, 2021
Wildfire Gallery, Chester Art Fair
United Kingdom, 2019
For the love of art, Elizebeth James Gallery
United Kingdom, 2019
Purpose and Position, Surface gallery
United Kingdom, 2018
Mariners Helpdesk, Anteros Main Gallery
United Kingdom, 2017
The Electric Open, Electric Picture House
United Kingdom, 2017
Convergence 15, Stew Gallery
United Kingdom, 2015
Count Me In, Anteros Main Gallery
United Kingdom, 2015
Una Group exhibition 2,
United Kingdom, 2014
A letter in mind
United Kingdom, 2014
Art Below, Holland Park Tube station
United Kingdom, 2009