“Breaking The Patterns offers emerging artists a vital opportunity to expand both their practices and their ways of thinking by providing crucial support alongside the freedom essential for artistic experimentation and personal growth. This exhibition, housing the work of 14 national and international artists, marks a pivotal moment in their careers. Developed through three month-long residencies in Crete and Lisbon, the works respond to new cultures, places, people, and climates.

The resulting body of work reveals a shared exploration of strength, resilience, stability, and tradition. Traditions foster strong social ties and a sense of belonging, both of which are essential for resilience and inner strength. At the same time, cross-cultural exchanges such as these encourage artists to move beyond the familiar – expanding connections, references, and methodologies – and to pursue bold, experimental new directions. The result is not only the remarkable body of work presented in this exhibition, but also the new mindsets, personal connections and approaches fostered through these international residencies – resources the artists will carry forward and continue to draw upon throughout their careers.” – Jenna Whelan, Curator & Director, GOMA Gallery.