Art / big jeff
Prolific gig-goer ‘Big Jeff’ reveals art exhibition plans
Avid attendee of gigs, prolific artist and much-loved Bristol legend Jeffrey Johns has revealed plans for a new exhibition.
Stare will feature a collection of self portraits “created to express difficult emotions and challenge perceptions”.
On display at Bristol Beacon throughout its opening fortnight, the artist known as Big Jeff aims to surprise and challenge the viewer and instigate conversations about mental health and disability.
is needed now More than ever
It comes after Jeff nearly died in a fire at his flat in Totterdown in June 2022 and spent many months recovering in hospital.
Big Jeff spent time painting at Southmead Hospital during his recovery – photo: Simon Holliday
“It feels very special and an honour to be part of Bristol Beacon’s reopening,” said Jeff.
“The new exhibition is a deeply personal collection with paintings reflecting my thoughts both during the pandemic and more recently as I have been in the recovery phase from my burns.
“My work is designed to invite conversation and I can’t think of a better venue to be home to a provocative exhibition than Bristol Beacon, which itself has helped Bristol to confront a number of difficult and controversial issues.”
Jeff has worked with male mental health group Talk Club, Claremont School, Avon Fire & Rescue and Dan’s Fund For Burns for the exhibition to raise awareness of mental health struggles, disability and injuries.
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Todd Wills, artistic director at Bristol Beacon, added: “Big Jeff is synonymous with the Bristol music scene and it’s great that we can honour his contribution by hosting his brand new art exhibition here at the Beacon.
“The Housewarming takes place on December 2 and we’ll be flinging open the doors to all parts of the venue with a host of Bristol talent in every part of the building.
“It’s completely free to attend for everyone and anyone and we encourage you all to immerse yourself in the works of Big Jeff.
“It’s truly inspiring and not to be missed.”
Stare, which is free to attend, takes place from December 2-10 in Bristol Beacon’s Glass Room.
Main photo: Plaster
Read next:
- Breakfast With Bristol24/7: Jeffrey Johns
- Outpouring of well wishes for Big Jeff on his return home from hospital
- New photos of Bristol Beacon transformation revealed
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