Curated by Guerin Projects, Life Lines, a major new exhibition by multidisciplinary British artist LUAP (Paul Robinson), opens on 6 December 2024 at The Bottle Factory in London. This show marks a significant shift in LUAP’s practice, presenting a new body of work that explores the human psyche through large-scale abstracted portraits and a series of intimate photographic works.
The exhibition includes sixteen large-scale paintings alongside photographic portraits, and marks a departure from LUAP’s signature “Pink Bear” imagery, which remains present but takes a backseat in these pieces. Here, the Pink Bear transforms into a silent guardian, offering comfort as the central focus shifts to the human subjects.
Over the past few years, LUAP’s work has evolved from a representational style to a more abstract, deconstructed approach, exploring how the human psyche fragments and reassembles itself. The sitters in these portraits are captured through a fractured lens, revealing the multi-layered nature of personality and the ways in which life events, memories, and emotional responses shape individual identities.
The works in Life Lines go beyond surface appearances. They depict not just likeness but deeper emotional truths, revealing vulnerability and resilience. Each subject is portrayed holding personal objects of deep significance, sparking conversations about mental health and identity. The Pink Bear, though abstracted in form, remains a comforting presence, providing warmth and protection as the viewer delves into the emotional complexity of the portraits.
In LUAP’s own words, “We don’t see the boundaries of the mirror when looking at these portraits. Instead, we see fragmented reflections that challenge the way we perceive ourselves. It’s as if each broken shard reveals different, isolated pieces of ourselves – distorted yet undeniably familiar.”
As part of the exhibition, Life Lines is supported by Nikon, with a series of portraits captured by LUAP using Nikon cameras and lenses. During the Private View, these photographic works will be projected large-scale, surrounding visitors with emotive imagery. Attendees will also have the opportunity to create their own LUAP-inspired ‘fragmented’ portraits in a bespoke photo booth, capturing a unique reflection using a Nikon Z6III camera and cracked mirror.
A portion of the exhibition’s proceeds will be donated to Mind, the mental health charity, to support their work for mental health awareness.
Exhibition Highlights:
- Life Lines includes sixteen large-scale paintings and a series of photographic portraits.
- LUAP’s signature Pink Bear imagery is recontextualized as a silent guardian in the background of each portrait.
- The exhibition explores themes of mental health, identity, and transformation.
- Nikon supports the exhibition, with LUAP’s photographic works created using Nikon equipment.
- Attendees can engage with the exhibition through interactive photo booth experiences and take home a unique, LUAP-inspired portrait.
About LUAP
LUAP is a British artist known for his multidisciplinary approach and his signature “Pink Bear” motif. A graduate of Central Saint Martins, his work explores themes of memory, identity, and the complexity of human emotion. His diverse practice includes oil painting, photography, performance, and sculpture, often blending abstraction with hyperrealism. LUAP’s works have been exhibited internationally, and his Pink Bear character has become an iconic symbol of emotional exploration and self-discovery.
About Guerin Projects
Guerin Projects is a contemporary art gallery that curates exhibitions exploring themes of culture, society, and human experience. Focusing on both emerging and established artists, the gallery aims to foster meaningful conversations through art.
About Nikon
Nikon is a global leader in imaging products and technology, renowned for its cameras, lenses, and optical systems. Committed to empowering creatives, Nikon supports artists and photographers in capturing powerful visual narratives.
About Mind
Mind is a UK charity that provides mental health support and advocacy, helping individuals facing mental health challenges. The charity works to raise awareness, improve services, and promote understanding of mental health issues.
About The Bottle Factory
The Bottle Factory is a restored Victorian warehouse in Peckham, London, providing space for creative industries. Its design celebrates the building’s history while fostering a new community of artists and entrepreneurs.
Life Lines: A New Exhibition by LUAP
6 – 21 December 2024
Private View: Friday, 6 December 2024, 6pm – 10pm
Public Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 7pm
Venue:
The Bottle Factory, 12 Ossory Road, London SE1 5AN
