Presence Required

Presence Required is an interactive art experience exploring the value of attention in a distracted world.

We live in an era where algorithms compete for our focus in tiny, constant bites. Our time is no longer ours. We skim past breathtaking works in seconds, adapt creativity to fit a feed, and call three seconds of viewing a success.

This exhibition pushes back.

Each painting is hidden within a sculptural frame that slowly reveals the work after a set time spent in its presence. The durations — 30 seconds, 2 minutes, and 10 minutes — are intentionally uncomfortable for the pace we’ve learned to live by. There is no soundtrack, no phone, no post — only the art, the viewer, and the experience they create together.

Presence Required is also a reflection of the artist’s experience with ADHD, acknowledging that focus and stillness affect us differently. It invites every visitor to confront how they give their time and what that act truly means.

Here, art doesn’t ask for your likes.
It asks for you.

Artworks for sale.

Artist Bio

Residing in the picturesque landscapes of North Canterbury, New Zealand, Andrew Swarbrick has been passionately exploring the realms of oil painting since 2010.

Known for a distinctive approach, Andrew employs a limited palette to craft compelling works that span various genres, including realism, surrealism, portraiture, symbolism, and existentialism. Andrew is deeply committed to the transformative power of art, using the canvas as a medium to communicate complex narratives and evoke profound emotions. With a career marked by dedication and innovation, Andrew has become a prominent figure in the international art scene. The mastery of a limited palette is a hallmark of Andrew's technique. This deliberate choice enhances the visual impact of his works, allowing for a heightened focus on details and creating a unique aesthetic that distinguishes Andrew’s art from the conventional.

As Andrew continues to evolve and push the boundaries of artistic expression, his journey remains a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. Andrew's oeuvre stands as a testament to his commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and inviting viewers to explore the myriad facets of the human experience through the lens of oil painting. With a career spanning over a decade, Andrew continues to captivate audiences with his evocative and thought-provoking creations.

Andrew Swarbrick Art