Starting their artistic journey as fictional characters The Connor Brothers in reality are British artists Mike Snelle and James Golding.
The fictional identity of Mike and James was designed to cloak their personal reality, and such was its success that it captured the imagination of the art world. The Connor Brothers were presented as innocent twins who had emerged traumatised from a Californian cult and were struggling to make sense of the world through their art – an interesting background no doubt, but the truth is more interesting still.
The brothers create retro style figurative images which encourage us to challenge our assumptions and preconceptions, and as a result to perhaps see the world a little differently. Their interest in undermining our assumptions and casual acceptance of cultural norms is reflected in their extraordinary background.
Their 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.
The Connor Brothers are a British artist duo, James Golding and Mike Snelle, known for their imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking art. Originally presenting themselves as fictional twin brothers raised in a cult, their fabricated backstory was a creative exploration of truth, fiction, and identity. Today, their real identities are widely known, but their art continues to intrigue audiences with its wit and emotional depth.
The Connor Brothers’ work is a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern satire. They often repurpose old pulp fiction imagery, adding their signature witty and poignant text overlays. This distinctive style creates a juxtaposition of nostalgia and contemporary commentary, making their art both visually striking and intellectually engaging.
Their art delves into themes of truth versus fiction, societal norms, mental health, and human relationships. Using humour and irony, they challenge perceptions and spark conversations about the complexities of modern life, all while maintaining a sense of accessibility and relatability.
Yes, The Connor Brothers are deeply committed to using their art to support meaningful causes. They have worked with charities like CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. Additionally, they’ve collaborated with The Big Issue, using their platform to support vulnerable communities.
The Connor Brothers’ art has been showcased in leading galleries and exhibitions worldwide, including London, New York, Sydney, and Hong Kong. Their global appeal has cemented their place as prominent figures in the contemporary art scene, with their works featured in both public and private collections.