Artists Charlie Kirkham and Robert Walker are set to debut a joint exhibition titled "The Cost of Love" at the Rugby Art Gallery and Museum this May. The showcase features contemporary paintings that reimagine classical mythological figures—such as Narcissus, Apollo, and Adonis—to explore psychological themes of desire, transformation, and vulnerability. While both artists maintain a focus on technical rigor and the human figure, the works shift away from traditional storytelling to focus on the emotional tensions of modern life.
The exhibition highlights the continued relevance of ancient archetypes in contemporary fine art, positioning the classical body as a site of ambiguity rather than perfection. For the artists, the show represents a significant milestone: Kirkham continues her momentum as an Arts Council England supported artist, while Walker, a rising 'geo-figurative' painter, transitions into full-time practice. By bridging the gap between historical reference and modern sensibility, the gallery aims to engage audiences in a dialogue about the enduring power of myth.