Nigel Humphries
Party Animals | 2024

Based on real children’s teddies, Humphries introduces his take on the emerging artistic trend featuring classic toys.

Each character has found itself involved in a real-life celebration. Decorated with novelty hats and the aftermath of party poppers, the toys have a sparkle in their eyes as they look to us to explain how they became a guest at the party happening around them.

This curiosity is revealed through individual micro expressions, the slight tilt of a head, a raised eyebrow, a subtle smile. Each bring the characters to life in the same way many of us did with our own favourite childhood toys.

It’s this nostalgic warmth, safety and emotional connection that Humphries expertly creates by injecting animated expression into his still life subjects, whilst prompting us to reflect on memories, growth and the passage of time.

Featured Art (L-R): 'Stanley', 'Bea' and 'Reggie' by Nigel Humphries. All artworks are hand-signed Canvas on board. 

Humphries has long used both modern and vintage toys as subjects for his art. Spending the last year experimenting with different styles of toys, this collection has been 12 months in the making and blends the still life with the tangible in a way that builds on his signature perspectives.

Painting in the style of the Old Masters, he applies thicker layers of oil paints and uses glazing and scumbling techniques to achieve rich textures, deep colours, and subtle tonal variations. The slow drying time of oil paint enables intricate blending and skilful layering to create the depth and realism within the fur and faces of soft toys.

The interplay of form, colour, shadow and light enhances the lifelike quality of the characters, whilst Humphries’ recognisable composition and vignette border bring a maturity and refinement to each piece.

Featured Art (L-R): 'Dot' by Nigel Humphries. The artwork is hand-signed Canvas on board.