SOFT LIFE/HARD NITES: Charlie Roberts (USA) solo exhibition at Atomica Gallery

Atomica Gallery is proud to present SOFT LIFE/HARD NITES, a solo exhibition of new works from visionary American artist Charlie Roberts (b.1984). Opening 19th February 2015 at Atomica Gallery in London, SOFT LIFE/HARD NITES will be Roberts’ debut UK exhibition.

A creative polymath currently in an open and expansive period of working, Roberts has only revealed a snippet of his work for SOFT LIFE/HARD NITES; a series of colourful female portraits and the by-line “travel pictures from both the physical and virtual worlds”. Passport photos or casual holiday snaps? The identities of his powerful subjects are unknown, but like all of Robert’s work, they stir immediate intrigue and infatuation.

The rest of the exhibition will remain a mystery until the opening night. Roberts is excited by this challenge; generating pieces under self-imposed pressure, without restriction or expectation. He feels his best output is realised within this environment. Every single painting, drawing or sculpture Roberts produces holds its own autonomous, magical world. Executed with inimitable energy and dextrous technique, Roberts uses a wide range of materials to create compelling and often humorous narratives; wooden totem poles, tribal carvings, incredibly detailed canvases and simple abstract sketches. The result is always raw, bewitching and utterly joyful.

The unsung hero of modern naïve-style art, Roberts is a true pioneer whose style has paved the way for a new generation of contemporary illustrators. Currently living on the outskirts of Oslo in the Norwegian forest, he is virtually off-the-grid, with no online presence whatsoever. A rare thing when instant gratification via social media is so easily achieved. SOFT LIFE/HARD NITES presents a special opportunity to view new works by one of today’s most exciting young artists.

Atomica Gallery, 7 Greens Court, London, W1F 0HQ
Monday - Friday: 12-7pm | Saturday: 12am-6pm | Sunday: Closed