John Kiki is currently at a decisive juncture in his artistic career. His main gallery, the Galerie WOS in Zurich, is expecting the Cypriot artist to finally break through. According to Daniel Wahrenberger, one of the WOS founders, leading private collectors are showing increasing interest in his works, so much so that the artist can't keep up with demand.

John Kiki, «Meeting on Bridleway», 2016, 200 x 188 cm. (Image: Galerie WOS)

Unusual Development

Kiki was born in 1943 in Cyprus and he moved to the UK when he was six. He studied at Camberwell College of Arts and the Royal Academy of Arts in London. While at Camberwell, he was educated and fostered by renowned artists Robert Medley and Frank Auerbach.

Master of Fusion

On the advice of Auerbach, he continued his education at the Royal Academy where he developed a unique style - a mix of figurative painting, abstract art, and pop art.

John Kiki, Leda and the Swan, 2008, 173 x 169 cm. (Image: Galerie WOS)

Myths and Humanity

Kiki's work is dominated by his Cypriot roots and an intensive examination of Greek mythology. He brings to life people and myths in his paintings, such as that of Amazon, Epona,  and Leda and the Swan while also portraying daily scenes. He gives every figure a unique character.

View of an exhibition by John Kiki, Norwich Castel Museum & Art Gallery,  2008. (Image: Pete Huggins)

Internationale Recognition

Kiki has established himself as an unusual talent in Europe and the US. His works can be seen in significant collections at the Tate Gallery and the Arts Council Collection. Private collectors around the world appreciate and own his work, among them the Saatchi Collection, which started buying his work very early. He has held important and well-visited exhibitions at the Ferens Art Gallery, the Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, and the National Gallery Sofia in Bulgaria.

John Kiki, «Trooper of the Plains», 2008, 195 x 179 cm. (Image: Galerie WOS)

Smaller Works

Kiki rarely goes to the studio and can no longer create large-format paintings because of health issues and they are becoming increasingly rare. His family has set up a studio for him in his garden where he now creates smaller works. Galerie WOS has the largest collection of his works worldwide and is prepared to fully support Kiki in making his next career step. 

John Kiki, «Keep smiling», 2017, 183 x 102 cm. (Image: Galerie WOS)

Keeping Him in View

finews.art-Redaktion has chosen Kiki because we believe art devotees should keep an eye on him. His style is unique and international art critics see his work in a very positive light. The prices for smaller works of his are between 5,000 to 90,000 francs for the largest (up to 220 by 240 cm) and it will be interesting to see how his career develops from here.