His paintings capture the raw, authentic nature of these communities, often challenging preconceived notions and offering a new lens through which to view the British working class.
We are excited to present the first solo exhibition of Louis Wootton-Davies at Soden Collection. Titled "Exploring British, Working Class Heritage," this exhibition delves deep into the often-overlooked narratives of the British working class, offering a fresh perspective on identity and heritage through powerful visual storytelling.
Born in Shrewsbury and now based in Oxford, Louis Wootton-Davies draws inspiration from his own personal history and the landscapes that shaped his upbringing. His paintings are based on a blend of historical family photos and recent photographs taken by the artist in the Shrewsbury area. The result is an evocative exploration of working-class life, blending past and present in a way that is both nostalgic and thought-provoking.
All of the images Louis Wootton-Davies paints are deeply personal and rooted in the history of Shrewsbury. His work draws inspiration from historical photographs of his parents and grandparents, who were long-time business owners in the area. These family archives provide a window into the past, allowing Louis to capture the essence of his heritage. In addition to these historical images, Louis also uses his own personal photography. Through the lens of his physical camera, he captures contemporary scenes that reflect his surroundings, which are then developed into real-life photographs. This blend of past and present adds a unique depth to his work, creating a powerful connection between his personal history and the evolving landscapes of the town.
"This exhibition is a deeply personal journey for me. The images I create are not just reflections of my own history but of the stories embedded in the fabric of Shrewsbury. By blending past family photographs with my own contemporary work, I aim to connect generations, offering a new perspective on British, working-class heritage and its place in today’s world." – Louis Wootton-Davies
Exploring British, Working Class Heritage
Louis’s work is not merely a depiction of the past; it seeks to highlight the complexities and nuances of working-class life today. His paintings capture the raw, authentic nature of these communities, often challenging preconceived notions and offering a new lens through which to view the British working class. With a focus on both the personal and the collective, Louis’s work invites the viewer to engage with themes of identity, heritage, and social history in a deeply emotional and relatable way.
This exhibition holds a special significance for gallery owner Jonathan Soden, who shares a similar working-class background. He reflects, “Louis’s work really resonates with me—there’s a nostalgic quality to his pieces that speaks directly to my own upbringing. I’m excited to bring this exhibition to Shrewsbury and share it with our community.”
His goal is to break down the barriers of traditional fine art and make his work accessible to those who may not typically engage with galleries. By capturing the essence of working-class life through striking visuals, Louis has successfully resonated with a wide range of people, sparking meaningful conversations around heritage and identity.
We invite you to experience "Exploring British, Working Class Heritage"—a compelling exhibition that brings the heart of British history and personal storytelling to life.