Stephen Forbes - Ice Series : At the Merchant Hotel Belfast

16 February - 16 March 2023
Works
Overview
Gormleys is delighted to present an exhibition by one of Northern Ireland's most exciting artists, Stephen Forbes. The exhibition will be held in our permanent gallery space in the 5* Merchant Hotel in Belfast city centre.
Born in Northern Ireland in 1973, Forbes trained at the prestigious Royal Academy School in London and has enjoyed international success since. Fascinated by people and their everyday interactions, his paintings focus on bustling crowd scenes, depicting groups of people going about their daily life. Depending on the seasons, his figures often appear in bright and vibrant colour on neutral backgrounds, allowing them to stand out, bold and impactful.

Described as a modern-day L.S Lowry, his impasto and textured approach to painting brings his figures to life, giving them a sense of liveliness and movement, while creating a dynamic and energetic scene. Overall these paintings celebrate life and the joyful process of painting itself. There is a 'happy" light touch, yet at the same time an underlying seriousness in the artists intentions.

Forbes' has exhibited at the Royal Academy London, the RHA Dublin, the RUA Belfast and his work is held in many important collections including Queens University Belfast, AIB, The Deutsche Bank, The Four Seasons Hotel Dublin and The Office of Public Works.

The exhibition runs in the Merchant Hotel, Belfast from 16th February - 16th March.