This critique was written by a local journalist following the exhibition of Justin, Toni and Alex at a Manchester Gallery in 2025.
Watercolor Whispers: Sam’s Evocative Figures Captivate Manchester
In a quiet corner of a bustling Manchester gallery, Sam’s watercolors stand as a testament to the power of subtlety, intimacy, and emotional depth. Featuring three collections that explore the figures of Justin, Toni, and Alex, this exhibition goes beyond traditional portraiture, offering a celebration of identity, vulnerability, and human connection. What makes this show even more compelling is its embrace of LGBTQ narratives—Sam and their models bring a shared authenticity to the work, creating a space where queerness is both visible and celebrated.
A Journey Through LGBTQ Presence
Walking through the exhibition, it becomes immediately clear that Sam’s work is not just figurative; it’s deeply personal. Each collection offers a distinct lens into the essence of its subject, reflecting the fluidity and complexity of queer identity. Justin’s series is contemplative, each piece imbued with a quiet stillness that invites introspection. The earthy tones and serene compositions echo the tenderness and introspection often associated with self-discovery and belonging.
Toni’s collection, by contrast, bursts with life and warmth. The vibrant reds and oranges radiate confidence and resilience, capturing the joy and defiance of queer existence. There’s an undeniable energy in these works, as if the artist and model are reclaiming space in a world that hasn’t always offered it willingly. Toni’s vibrant presence fills the room, reminding viewers of the strength in visibility and self-expression.
Alex’s series feels like a poetic exploration of fluidity, both in form and identity. The abstracted interplay of greens, golds, and browns evokes a dreamlike sense of being in-between, a visual metaphor for the expansiveness of gender and sexuality. Alex’s presence within the work feels grounded yet otherworldly, a beautiful reflection of queer individuality that defies conventional boundaries.
Watercolor as a Voice
Sam’s mastery of watercolor brings these themes to life with extraordinary sensitivity. The medium itself mirrors many aspects of queer identity: fluid, unpredictable, and layered with depth. Sam uses the translucency of watercolor to create moments of light and shadow that suggest, rather than define, their subjects. This allows the work to reflect the complexity of LGBTQ experiences—individuals who are constantly navigating visibility, fluidity, and self-expression in a world that often demands simplification.
Connection Through Queerness
What sets Sam’s work apart is the palpable connection between the artist and their models. This is not art made in isolation—it is a collaboration, a shared space between queer individuals that feels deeply authentic. Sam’s decision to focus on natural, unposed moments and emphasize emotional resonance over technical precision allows the viewer to see not just the subject’s body but their humanity and story. The result is art that feels alive, intimate, and profoundly moving.
A Safe Haven in the Gallery
The exhibition itself reflects the themes of the work. The gallery has become a safe haven—a space where LGBTQ stories are celebrated, not just represented. The subdued lighting and gentle hum of conversation create an atmosphere that mirrors the vulnerability and intimacy of the pieces. Visitors pause, lean in closer, and seem to understand that what they’re seeing is more than just art—it’s a celebration of identity and connection.
A Bold Celebration of LGBTQ Artistry
Sam’s exhibition is a triumph, blending masterful technique with unapologetic queerness. By capturing Justin’s introspection, Toni’s vitality, and Alex’s fluidity, Sam has created a body of work that not only showcases their extraordinary artistic talent but also makes space for queer stories to be told on their own terms. Each brushstroke, each pose, and each layer of color feels like an act of love, defiance, and celebration.
As I left the gallery, I couldn’t help but reflect on the power of queer art to transcend boundaries and foster connection. Sam’s watercolors are more than just beautiful—they are affirmations of life, resilience, and the enduring strength of the LGBTQ community. This is an exhibition that Manchester—and the world—needs to see, a celebration of art’s power to embrace and uplift every shade of humanity.