Collection: The Connor Brothers

The Connor Brothers | Art Collection

“It is the paradox of art that artifice is often the best way to depict reality, fiction the best way to challenge conventional ideas of what we think of as ‘the truth’. Most people are happy to think that this is the way it is. But it really isn’t. Who knows the truth of anything?” (Mike Snelle).

The Connor Brothers’ best-known works offer a playful twist on the conventions of pulp fiction cover art, accompanied by words from the world’s greatest poets, cynics and wits. These satirical juxtapositions of cliché and brilliance strike a chord with the modern age. Thought provoking and ironic, they invite us to think about the difference between appearance and reality, between what we see, what we think we see, and what we want to see.

This obsession with truth and fiction is the golden thread that runs throughout the life and work of the Connor Brothers and is particularly relevant in the current climate of fake news, post-truth and social media. They themselves started out as a fiction as in reality they are British artists Mike Snelle and James Golding. 'The Connor Brothers' intimal backstory was presented as innocent twins who had emerged traumatised from a Californian cult and were struggling to make sense of the world through their art. Their work captured the imagination of the artworld and was further enhanced when they revealed their true identity. 

Investment opportunity 

Thought provoking and ironic, they invite us to think about the difference between appearance and reality, between what we see, what we think we see, and what we want to see. This why they have been recognised to truly break the mold of the contemporary art scene and considered a great investment. 

Achievements 

The Connor Brothers have been widely featured in the media, along with their  sell-out shows at galleries in LA, New York, Sydney, Dubai, London, Hong Kong and Berlin. Their work is in collections at The Victoria and Albert Museum, The Penguin Collection and both the Omar Koch and Niarchos Collections. Sotheby’s Contemporary Art Auction in May 2021 sold for over £44,000, which was 300% more than the estimate.

Today James and Mike align their work with social causes. After working for several years in the refugee camp known as The Jungle, they launched the Refuchic billboard campaign, which forced us to examine our attitude to poverty and displacement. They have curated a refugee-themed show at Banksy’s Dismaland, and they continue to work with mental health charity, CALM.

Unveiling the Enigmatic Artistry of the Connor Brothers

The art world is full of mystery and intrigue, and the Connor Brothers are no exception. This dynamic duo has taken the art world by storm with their thought-provoking and often satirical pieces. But who are the Connor Brothers, and what makes their art so enigmatic? Let's take a closer look at the artists behind the pseudonym.

The Pseudonym

The Connor Brothers are not actually brothers, nor are they even named Connor. The name is a pseudonym for two British artists who prefer to keep their true identities a secret. This adds to the mystery and allure of their art, as it allows the focus to be solely on their work rather than their personal lives.

The Beginnings

The Connor Brothers first emerged on the art scene in 2012 with their debut exhibition, "True Love Stories." The collection featured a series of book covers with altered titles and satirical quotes, poking fun at the cliches and stereotypes of romance novels. This playful and subversive approach to art quickly gained attention and sparked a conversation about the role of art in society.

The Art

The Connor Brothers' art is a blend of pop art, street art, and traditional painting techniques. Their pieces often feature vintage imagery and text, creating a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. However, upon closer inspection, the text is often altered to convey a deeper message or commentary on societal issues. This juxtaposition of familiar and subversive elements is what makes their art so intriguing and thought-provoking.

The Themes

The Connor Brothers' art explores a variety of themes, including consumerism, gender roles, and the influence of media on society. Their pieces often challenge societal norms and question the status quo, encouraging viewers to think critically about the world around them. This is a common thread in all of their collections, making their art not only visually appealing but also intellectually stimulating.

The Success

Since their debut, the Connor Brothers have gained international recognition and success. Their art has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and their pieces have been sold for record-breaking prices at auctions. They have also collaborated with various brands and organisations, further solidifying their place in the art world.

The Legacy

The Connor Brothers continue to create thought-provoking and impactful art, challenging societal norms and sparking important conversations. Their legacy is not only in their art but also in their ability to use their platform to bring attention to important issues and inspire change.

Now that you know a little more about the Connor Brothers, take a closer look at their art and see if you can decipher the hidden messages within. Who knows, you may just uncover a new perspective on the world around you.