Eyes First – An exhibition of paintings, drawings & collage

Eyes First is a moving and insightful art exhibition that delves into the relationship between an uncle and his nephew. It will be the first collaboration between the two artists and family members. The artwork ranges from vibrant paintings and detailed drawings to large scale collages and mixed media images, reflecting their unique voices and visions.

Kevin Tierney, 78 yrs ( @kevtierneyart ) is an artist living and working with Parkinson’s disease, who brings a lifetime of experience and emotional depth to his creations.

He has a home in Woolgoolga, northern NSW, and has had numerous exhibitions in the area, both solo and collaborative. As well as exhibiting at various galleries including Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Dorrigo, Nambucca Heads and Inverell. He describes his work as loose and provocative. Despite the challenges posed by his condition, his work remains a testament to resilience and the enduring power of creativity.

“I consider my Parkinson’s disease a benefit as it allows me to indulge in imaginative works without boundaries.” – Kevin Tierney

His nephew, Stephen Tierney, 48 yrs, ( @steve__tierney ) is an artist and designer based in the Inner West. Since 2011 he has lived in Cambodia, Mexico and Australia where he has exhibited his own work in solo and group exhibitions regularly. Deeply influenced by his own father’s Alzheimer’s and Dementia, he infuses his work with a sense of empathy and reflection. For this exhibition he will be creating a series of collages that will utilise historical family photographs.

The focus of the exhibition will not be on those themes exclusively. They will seek more to celebrate their own artistic achievements and highlight the impact of their personal journeys as artists. Offering a glimpse into a shared world, where art becomes a means of connection and expression. The artists hope to present a powerful narrative of familial bonds, artistic innovation, and the indomitable spirit of creativity overcoming adversity.

An opening event will be held at Chrissie Cotter Gallery in Camperdown, Sydney on Wednesday 26th February 2025 from 5–8pm. The exhibition will continue until Sunday 16th March 2025. Supported by Inner West Council.