A Retrospective: Terry Ffyffe - From Preston to London | an art exhibition

A Retrospective is more than an exhibition — it’s a homecoming.

This September, Gallery Unbound invites you to step inside the world of Terry Ffyffe (1952–2018), a Preston-born artist whose creative path led him from Melbourne’s bohemian Carlton in the 1970s to the heart of London’s art scene, where he lived and worked for more than four decades.

Terry’s art defies easy categorisation. He described his style as “figurative, expressionist painting, about the struggle for self-realisation” — a definition that only hints at the depth of his work. From luminous portraits that seem to hold the viewer’s gaze to allegorical paintings exploring the role of the artist, from meditative spiritual works to bold social commentary, his canvases are as varied as they are powerful.

One of the centrepieces of this exhibition is Warehouse A (1996), painted in response to the Bosnian genocide. This eight-foot-long work is confronting, deeply human, and as relevant today as it was nearly 30 years ago. David Lee, editor of Art Review, called it “a painting which symbolised everything wrong with this century,” and it graced the cover of the magazine’s Millennium Edition.

Yet A Retrospective is not only about Terry’s political or spiritual works — it’s a full portrait of the artist. You’ll see vibrant landscapes inspired by his travels in the Australian outback, expressive nudes from his London studio, and whimsical allegories that reveal his humour and love of storytelling. His art often invites the viewer to look beyond the surface, to discover the deeper meaning hidden in the brushstrokes.

Terry’s life story is just as compelling as his art. The eldest of 11 children in a traditional Catholic family, he was dux of his school and a talented sportsman, but chose the uncertain path of an artist. His journey included time in a Buddhist monastery in Queensland, years mentoring young artists in Essex, and a lifelong fascination with faith, humanity, and the search for meaning.

Opening Night — Friday 19 September, 6–8pm

Free entry, drinks provided, all welcome.

Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Terry’s work or discovering him for the first time, A Retrospective offers a rare opportunity to see a lifetime of art gathered under one roof — to experience the beauty, power, and humanity of an artist who was never afraid to confront the big questions.

Join us at Gallery Unbound and be part of the conversation.