Liam Barr is a leading contemporary New Zealand artist. A recurring theme in Barr’s work is the idea of symbolism reflecting an aura of pathos, displacement and insight into contemporary New Zealand life.

Barr’s finely honed skills communicate with delicacy, compassion and perception aspects of the human condition. With a breath of irony his works delve into more serious concerns of spirituality, morality, the environment and one’s role in life.

Liam Barr emigrated from Scotland to New Zealand with his family in 1974. Following a period of travel overseas, Barr settled in Perth, Western Australia, where he trained and worked as a graphic designer before returning to New Zealand in 2004 to further develop his artistic career.

The exploration of folk, history and the peculiarities therein, is at the essence of Barr’s work. This is expressed through meticulous attention to form and structure within the development of his subjects.

“Within the land you will find people on it. How we respond, interact and embrace it, holds fascination for me and is ultimately linked to our survival. My work seeks to form a connection between the land and those who live upon it. Each is a contemplation of thought, mindfulness and a tale of ones place within.” – Liam Barr

ARTIS Gallery has represented Liam Barr since 2012 and he has held three exhibitions at ARTIS – the most recent being ‘Tethered’, in September 2018.