Autobiography, Illustrated Lives
by Simon Mills & Brónach Rae
The Riverside Gallery’s First Exhibition of 2025 – and Its First Fully Accessible Show
Sun Pier House is proud to present Autobiography, Illustrated Lives, the opening exhibition of 2025 at The Riverside Gallery and a landmark moment as our first fully accessible exhibition.
This deeply personal and visually rich project began when artist Simon Mills started writing his autobiography. Sparking a new idea: to explore life stories not just in words, but through image. Exhibiting in collaboration with fellow artist Brónach Rae.
As a result, this exhibition brings together a life-sized collage by Brónach, layered with memory, material, and movement and a detailed timeline representing Simon’s eight decades of life. Together, these works form a playful, unconventional, and thought-provoking portrait of two artists and the lives they’ve shaped, and been shaped by, through art.
“It’s not a retrospective.”
About the Artists
Brónach and Simon have known each other for more than sixteen years, often collaborating across projects while maintaining distinct practices.
Simon Mills dedicates his life to painting. Beginning with art school in the early 1970s, his journey has included work in fine art photography at Sotheby’s, fresco restoration in Italy, and scenic painting for the West End and the Royal Opera House. Although he is best known for his expressive landscapes, his practice also includes portraiture and urban street scenes.
Brónach Rae’s creative life is reflected in her expansive collage work, much of which is distilled into the life-sized piece in this exhibition. She brings a unique and engaging perspective and will be available in the gallery to speak with visitors about her process.
Gallery & Café Opening Times
Wednesday 25th June, 10am – 4pm
Thursday 26th June, 10am – 4pm
Thursday 26th June, 4pm – 8pm
Friday 27th June, 10am – 4pm
Saturday 28th June, 10am – 4pm
Exhibitions at The Riverside Gallery
Located in the heart of Chatham’s vibrant cultural quarter, Sun Pier House is a dynamic riverside arts venue where creativity comes to life. Overlooking the tranquil River Medway, our light-filled gallery spaces provide a striking and ever-changing backdrop for an exciting programme of exhibitions, installations, and community-led art projects.
Have a look at what’s coming up next in the Riverside Gallery!