While you might better recognise Jim Moir by his comedic alias, Vic Reeves, and from his brilliant double act with Bob Mortimer in Reeves & Mortimer, he’s also pretty handy with a paintbrush.
Moir says himself that he fell into comedy by accident, and that if he was to be remembered by anything, he’d rather it be his artwork.
You’ll now be able to catch a glimpse of that very work, as more than 45 of his paintings and drawings will be exhibited at the Contemporary Six gallery on Princess Street from 13th-27th November.
Much like his comedy, Moir’s artistic style has developed a familiar surrealist feel. Working within a number of mediums including watercolour, oils, sculpture and pencil drawings, he boasts a long list of repeat international buyers and collectors, including a number of celebrities.
On picking our city for his showing, Jim said: “I chose Manchester for my solo exhibition because it is a beautiful city, full of art lovers.
“I filmed here for Corrie for three months, so I know a few shortcuts. Me and my wife watch Corrie every week and we love all the characters, old and new.”
On what to look for when considering investing in art, Jim, who says his own taste has evolved rather than changed over the years, advises: “Always buy what you like as you have to live with it.”
Alex Reuben, owner, Contemporary Six, said: “The name Vic Reeves may be synonymous with the comedy scene, but it’s Jim Moir who you should keep an eye on.
“I think the best way to explain Moir’s work is that he’s telling the truth.
“He is being brutally honest with himself and thus with the viewer. His work is unfiltered, and he makes what feels right in the moment, be that a painting on pop culture, some pencil drawing caricatures or naturalist bird watercolours.
“The subject matter is mischievous and the colour palette vast. One cannot possibly pigeonhole this artist.”
