Face is a solo exhibition by L. A. Simmons presenting an ongoing series of portraits made through sustained, one-to-one encounters.

Each work begins with a simple structure: artist and sitter facing one another. As Simmons draws, conversation unfolds. These exchanges frequently move into complex or unexpected territory, and the act of drawing becomes a way of holding space for what emerges.

Alongside her art practice, Simmons has worked for many years as a therapist. This background informs the work — particularly her interest in how faces are read, remembered and misremembered. In therapeutic settings, attention is often focused less on fixed physical features and more on expression, communication and emotional shift. Simmons is intrigued by the instability of recognition: the way a face can appear to change over the course of a conversation, or momentarily reveal a younger self when past experiences are revisited.

The portraits function as records of these encounters. They are typically left as they were made in the moment, with minimal revision. The finished image becomes a reference point — a document of shared time and attention. Many of the works have extended beyond paper: printed onto objects connected to the context of their making — including mugs, banners, plates, aprons and notebooks, and shared digitally as PDFs. These iterations act not as merchandise, but as further traces of the encounter.

The works are not commissioned and are created when the moment feels appropriate and mutual. The exhibition at Thames-Side Studios Lounge brings together a selection from the series, and new portraits will be made during the exhibition period, continuing the project in real time.

For further information, images, or appointments, please email the artist [email protected]
Follow L. A. Simmons on Instagram @l.a.simmons

Thames-Side Studios Lounge is located on the second floor of Unit 0 and open to all studio holders and by appointment.