“Surrealism can be subtle; I like to toy with the freedom to imagine and bend it to what I want it to be and say”
– Liam Barr

Liam Barr is a contemporary painter living in Melbourne, Australia, and we are delighted to have a selection of his limited edition prints on paper available in the gallery.

Barr focuses on the figurative subject while merging surrealist and realist styles to capture the essence of people and their sense of belonging, or lack of. At the heart of his artistic expression lies the desire to explore humanity’s relationship with its environment.
While his painting technique may be considered classical with its multi-layered approach, his subject matter is contemporary, and each series of work explores a different thematic concept. From his early magic-surrealist and tiki-inspired motifs to narratives rooted in history, Barr’s artistry has continuously evolved. In his recent works, he blends realism with a touch of semi-surrealism, immersing the viewer in a beguiling realm of imagination and storytelling.

The 2010’s marked a significant period of evolution for Barr’s artistic style and thematic focus. During this time, he began to delve deeper into New Zealand’s cultural and historical narratives, exploring and questioning his place as a Pākeha. His works from this period often depicted surreal and fantastical scenes, inviting viewers to ponder the complexities of identity and belonging.

In recent years, Barr has continued to expand his artistic horizons, exploring various themes while maintaining his signature narrative style. His later works reflect a matured perspective with a stronger emphasis toward environmental and social issues. These works are celebrated for their emotional depth and the nuanced portrayal of his subjects.

To view all available limited edition works by Liam Barr, click here