ABOUT
Born in London in 1995, Lee Kay-Barry, a Fine Art graduate from the University of Leeds, draws inspiration from his time at the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia. Influenced by the vibrant hues of the Mediterranean, his international exhibitions and London-based art residencies showcase his unique style.
Kay-Barry's paintings invite viewers into a captivating interplay between subject and observer, imbued with theatricality and emotional depth. Embracing bold colours and shapes reminiscent of abstract impressionism, his work encapsulates fleeting moments of everyday life, particularly in portraiture and figural compositions.
Through abstraction, Kay-Barry infuses ordinary scenes with new significance, preserving shared memories that resonate universally. Delving into the intricacies of human connection with time, Kay-Barry's current body of work explores the nuanced relationship individuals have with their limited time.
Addressing struggles with timekeeping, his paintings capture people engaged in various activities across London, often depicting individuals asleep or fatigued. This thematic exploration reflects on societal perceptions of time and identity, intertwined with personal experiences and a broader inquiry into the profound impact of time and legacy on human existence.
Collaborations:
14th May 2020 – WhyNow Up Next Series
26th April 2020 – Three Shades Creative: ‘What Inspires You?’
Publications:
Portrait Artist of the Year 2021
NET-A-PORTER: Art for Action – How to make powerful purchases during the pandemic
The Auction Collective & The Westminster Art Collective x Lee Kay-Barry
The Artist's Artist Project x Lee Kay-Barry
Shaftesbury: Mental Health Awareness x Lee Kay-Barry
Across Magazine x Lee Kay-Barry
Ivy: Investing in the Early Artist’s Career with AucArt
Ebbing, Flowing Encounters – University of Leeds
Fragments Interview: A Sneak Peek with Lee Kay-Barry
Press:
Talks:
3rd May 2020 – Aime Magazine Sunday Sessions Q&A
18th March 2018 – AttRAct The Royal Academy of Arts