Illustrated Moments: Andrea Ucini's intimate and emotional works to go on display

Born in Italy and currently living and working in Denmark, Ucini has a signature sense of humour and a nod to the surreal, alongside a grounded take on expression, gesture and human nature. His works play on both concept and reality to create an often touching picture of modern life. They are loved by the editors of the world's biggest publications, from The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times to The Guardian and Le Monde, and have graced the cover of multiple Elena Ferrante novels.

Ucini is familiar with Rankin, too, as he first collaborated with Rankin's agency in 2021 on the free book, How to Die Well: A Practical Guide to Death, Dying and Loss. Rankin was immediately drawn to the "softness and yet emotional strength" in Ucini's work and offered him an exhibition to expand his reach beyond the publication's pages to the wider London art scene.

"I'm known for photography, but I love all kinds of art," says Rankin. "When something speaks to you, you want to share it, and Ucini's work speaks to me. I'm proud to be able to give him a space and introduce those who follow me to his incredible work."

Titled Illustrated Moments, Ucini's show at the Annroy Gallery on Grafton Road in London takes over the space and its many walls and iconic film-strip inspired windows to present over 30 works, including pieces from How to Die Well and the illustrator's archive. It runs from 25 February until 8 April 2022.