Halcyon Gallery is proud to introduce British female artist Graceland London to its gallery programme. Spotlight on the Shadows is the artist’s first solo exhibition with the gallery and presents an expansive survey of 30 artworks in an immersive space at 29 New Bond Street. The works provide a unique opportunity to explore the full scope of her vibrant, nuanced, dark and playful sensibility.

“I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember,” Graceland London reflects, “I started drawing as a child, and it was clear to me early on that this was my calling”. Spotlight on the Shadows is the result of many years of continuous work, research, and development for the artist, who draws great influence from her many travels to the US. Saying, “America, in particular, has a strong influence on my work, especially with my affinity for Americana themes”.

What does the name Graceland London mean to her? “A ‘Land of Grace’ and a kind of wonderland filled with grace,” she says, “it reflects a state of mind and a realm of dark elegance and beauty”.

Forn Graceland London, pursuing art is far more than a career choice. More so a fundamental part of her identity. “I want to immerse the viewer in the worlds I create, revealing new insights with each look. I want them to ask: what does this mean?”.

Drawing on her knowledge of art history and fascination with symbolism, Graceland London explores images of decadence and vice in the contemporary world – what she describes as “the darker side of the human ego”. If the viewer looks further into each painting, the artist includes a significant subject or object, often rendered in oil, as a hidden message to interpret. The egg is a recurring symbol, representing the start of life, but also the idea that we all, in some way, end up “fried” by our own bad habits or darker vices, which shape both our personal worlds and the world at large.

The ‘squeegee’ character often appears in Graceland London’s paintings, serving as a representation of the ego and emotions and setting the emotional tone of the piece. The motif emerged from early childhood drawings, the character evolving, reflecting different faces and emotions we all experience—joy, sadness, anger, or even devilish traits. “It’s a mirror of the human experience” she tells us.

Graceland London’s influences are varied. “I am drawn to the Renaissance and North Flemish periods” she says, “artists like Hieronymus Bosch and Luca Signorelli inspire me. I’m also a fan of Ken Currie, a figurative Scottish painter, Americana, and horror”.

By starting each day with meditation Graceland London is able to clear her mind, but observes “I’m constantly inspired by ideas—particularly those that touch on the unknown”. Philosophers like Carl Jung, Alan Watts, and Abraham Hicks are among the many influences that shape her thought process when not painting.

What can we expect next from this emerging artist? “It’s an ongoing process and I’m already working on my next collection” she divulges.

Graceland London, Spotlight on the Shadows, open now at 29 New Bond Street, Halcyon Gallery