While recovering from major surgery in 2019, Graham Ibbeson returned to his first love – drawing.

For the very first time, over 30 artworks were on display at the Cooper Gallery offering a personal reflection of two generations.

Family portraits are drawn with compassion and humour, using charcoal. The new work is accompanied by poetry composed by Graham’s cousin, Paul Thwaites, and inspired by these drawings.

‘I use my family and friends as subject matter, and conjure up observations from the past, present, and occasionally the pub, to bring a narrative together. I’m a figurative artist, with a keen interest in human nature, relationships, and the little absurdities of life
that bring humour to the fore.’

Graham Ibbeson, May 2022

Explore the exhibition in this 360 tour.

Listen to poetry by Paul Thwaites

Find out more about the exhibtion in this short film with Graham. 

Enjoy 'A conversation with Graham Ibbeson' in our latest podcast

Browse through the limited edition book created for the exhibition

Graham has created a playlist to accompany the exhibition