Exhibition dedicated to the artwork of comedians

A new art exhibition will feature only works by comedians, including creations from Josie Long, Jack Whitehall, Lolly Adefope, Joe Lycett and others.

While some of the contributors to the Art Is The Best Medicine exhibition such as Harry Hill and Vic Reeves – whose drawing Batman At Ease is above – re known for their artistic skills, others may come as a surprise.

Also taking part are Jenny Eclair, Tim Key, Jessica Hynes, Annie McGrath, Pierre Novellie, Rose Matafeo, Spencer Jones, Dane Baptiste, Elf Lyons, Alistair Green, Bec Hill, Mawaan Rizwan and Katy Wix.

All the artwork on display at the contemporary art gallery Fiumano Clase in central London will be on sale, with a third of all proceeds going to Mental Health UK.

McGrath, who is curating the exhibition, says art is ‘an antidote to stand-up; there is something refreshing about the splendid isolation of painting. Creativity is a double-edged sword which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety at the same time as being incredibly therapeutic.’

Brian Dow, chief executive of Mental Health UK said: ‘While we’ve made undeniable progress in our understanding of mental illness, the work is by no means done. 

‘Too many people still find it too difficult to talk about their own experiences. That’s why events like this are still so important. It shows that no matter who you are, open and honest conversations about our mental health have the power to bring real change to people’s lives. 

'I’d like to thank Annie, and everyone involved, for all of their fundraising efforts, and we look forward to a successful event.’

The exhibition runs from December 13 to 20 with a stand-up gig being held at the gallery – Fiumano Clase in Wren Street, Clerkenwell – on the 14th.

Published: 14 Oct 2019