A new solo exhibition at The Bomb Factory Art Foundation delves into our relationship with key figures from our childhood and examines the human capacity to grow.
In his latest outing titled Broken Spirit, which runs until 22 Feburary at the Holborn venue, London-based artist S. Riley uses sculptures made from leather to reflect the push and pull between vulnerability and resilience and how that can result in healing.
Riley uses his work to challenge notions which society deems normal and spark conversations, particularly around mental health.
Riley said: “[Leather is] organic, strong, and resilient, yet capable of transformation.
“We are not defined by our past, but our abilities to overcome and face our struggles.”
This exhibition draws heavily from the stigma around mental health in West Indian and African communities, where people prioritise appearing strong over expressing emotions.
Riley experienced this first-hand growing up in a single-parent household, where his mother hid her hardships to shield him and provide him with unwavering support
Now, as a father of four sons, he uses his work to honour the pain and strength of those who have come before him while also aiming to heal generational wounds.
Broken Spirit is available to attend until 22 February at The Bomb Factory Art Foundation, 103 Kingsway, London WC2B 6QX.
Feature image credit: Jacob Antigha
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