Explore modern Essex and Suffolk through the faces and stories of its residents in this intimate portrait exhibition by artist Halla Groves-Raines.

Celebrating 10 Years of the Firstsite Collectors’ Group Bursary Awards

We’re thrilled to mark a decade of the Firstsite Collectors’ Group Bursary Awards with our second exhibition this year that celebrates East Anglian artists who have received or applied for these awards. Halla was a recipient of one of Firstsite’s Bursaries in 2023.

Using her award funds, Halla has created a cohesive collection of up to ten portraits, each capturing unique snapshots of people living in Essex and Suffolk. Some of these paintings are showcased in this exhibition.

What to expect

Featuring over ten existing and new paintings, embark on a unique journey through our region, exploring modern perspectives of local women and family connections in Essex-based artist Halla Groves-Raines’ first solo exhibition in a public gallery.

Halla is deeply inspired by patterns, drawing from fabrics collected from various sources – both discovered and handed down through generations. Her intimate paintings are created during life sessions using oil on board, showcasing patterned clothing or upholstery belonging to her subjects.

This creative process weaves personal stories into her art, highlighting the genuine connections that Halla cherishes between herself and her sitters. Once the initial work is complete, Halla retreats to her home studio to add the final touches, using photographs to capture every detail.

About the artist

Born in Scotland and a graduate of the famous Glasgow School of Art, Halla Groves-Raines stepped away from her career as an artist to bring up her two young children but recently returned to painting, earning a commendation in the 2023 Scottish Portrait Awards.

Firstsite Collector’s Group was established in 2014, and raises vital funds for Firstsite, through sponsoring exhibitions and artistic events to enhance the gallery’s programme. Find out more here.