American, billboard hi-jacking, political activist, pop surrealist Ron English, is returning to Elms Lesters in London for his first ever UK solo show "LAZARUS RISING"

The new exhibition, with its deliberately provocative theme of resurrection, reflects the contemporary socio-political situation, presenting uncomfortable and dark insights beneath the slick, plastic face of our society.

“Ron English continues to exploit the mismatch between effortless style and edgy content in his paintings. It’s an effective strategy, wrong-footing viewers and making them reconsider the way they might absorb imagery from advertising without critically engaging with it.” Ben Jones, art historian.

Private view: Thurday 7th May 6 - 9pm. The show runs from 8th May until 6th June 2009

An exhibition catalogue will also be released to tie in with the exhibition with an introduction by curator Paul Jones of the Elms Lesters Painting Rooms and an essay/interview by writer and critic Francesca Gavin. More info on the book here.

Ron English will be in the gallery to sign copies between 12.00 and 2.00pm on Saturday 9th May.

Elms Lesters Painting Rooms | 1-3-5 Flitcroft St | London