The Complexities of the Broken Mind and the Broken Vases

Debut Solo Exhibition by Matt Redfern

Saturday 4th April 2026 11am—6pm

Doncaster Unitarian Church, Doncaster, DN1 3PB

FREE

Matt Redfern’s practice has developed through a combination of a part-time degree in painting and professional experience supporting individuals through challenging moments. Working primarily in oil and acrylic, his figurative practice explores male mental health through intense, narrative-driven imagery, balanced by colourful and visually engaging compositions.

Influenced by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Peter Howson, Aly Helyer and Egon Schiele, Matt's work uses the male figure to convey emotional tension and psychological depth. A distinctive use of an ultramarine line is employed to define form and heighten mood, creating visual contrast within the work. Each piece presents an open-ended narrative, inviting interpretation and encouraging conversation around vulnerability, resilience, and the often-unspoken realities of male mental health.

This exhibition, presented on the balcony of Doncaster Unitarian Church, brings these themes together in a direct and uncompromising exploration of emotional struggle, identity, and resilience from a male perspective. Through a series of figurative works, which present an honest reflection on lived experience, challenging traditional expectations of masculinity and the culture of silence that often surrounds it. The exhibition insists on attention rather than avoidance, using painting to confront stigma head-on and to invite empathy, understanding, and open engagement with men’s mental health.

The exhibition will remain open until 16th April 2026, for a private viewing as part of ArtBomb's Beyond the Scroll forum event.

If you would like to arrange a group visit or private viewing between 4th - 16th April 2026 please email admin@artbombuk.com

Please note that the exhibition is only accessible via a staircase.

Instagram: @mattredfernart