The Art of the Outsider

This Sumer, Nelly Duff Gallery is thrilled to present an inspiring collection of new original works and printed editions from London based artist Stephen Anthony Davids. ‘The Art of the Outsider’ will showcase the complexity and range of Davids’ work in this debut exhibition, combining a heady mixture of new pieces set to provoke and charm in equal measure. Expect to find a congregation of Davids’ signature portraits that encompass his unique takes on youth culture, history, race and contemporary masculinity.

New to Nelly Duff in 2019, Davids refusal to subscribe to traditional ‘isms’ or labels allows his work to exist in a liminal state, and explains why he has such a devoted collector base. Having exhibited internationally, as well as running his own gallery space here in East London until 2009, his overwhelming experience and passion have cemented his status as a leader and maverick in London’s contemporary art scene.

A (literal) tower of personality, Davids’ non-traditional path as an artist has resulted in his bracingly multidisciplinary practice. From sculpture, to three dimensional paintings and delicate works on Victorian ledger sheets, the range in medium of Davids works reflects the cacophony of themes that he explores within them. His bold, almost cubist style draws from art historical greats such as Picasso and Basquiat, but his upbringing in East London and passion for found objects mean his work avoids any risk of comparison. Eloquent, courageous, provocative and comedic, ‘The Art of the Outsider’ will inspire endless conversation, and undoubtedly a few smiles.