London’s art scene welcomes an exhibition at Sim Smith gallery that invites us to reflect on the cyclical nature of time and the emotional weight of historical narratives. Vanessa Garwood’s solo exhibition, Story Circles, on view from October 10 to November 2, 2025, brings the echoes of the past into the present through paintings and installations.
In this exhibition, Garwood envelops viewers in the power of storytelling and memory, both through her paintings and a site-specific installation. Her canvases depict figures in transitional spaces, blending real and imagined elements. With masterful use of light and color, each work carries the emotional weight of a memory. Rather than presenting these figures as mere portraits, Garwood weaves them into narratives that reflect the fluidity of time and the layering of personal histories.
One of the exhibition’s most striking features is Garwood’s immersive installation, inspired by ancient rituals and storytelling traditions. Composed of woven tapestries and ceramic sculptures, the installation brings narratives to life. The tapestries interweave figures and symbols in layered stories, while the sculptures embody the tangible essence of these tales. As viewers navigate this space, they do more than observe—they forge a connection with their own stories and collective memory. Through this integrated work, Garwood reminds us of how our lives exist within an endless cycle and how the past shapes the present. Story Circles proves that art can unite personal and universal stories, offering a timeless and poignant experience.
Sim Smith, London
October 10 – November 2, 2025
