Transitions by Anthony Donnelly

25 October 2025 to 8 March 2026

Transitions is an exhibition by Nottingham-based artist Anthony Donnelly that explores stories of change, resilience, and transformation through the portraits of seven city residents. Selected and interviewed by the artist, each participant has a family history shaped by migration – whether through their own journey or that of their parents or grandparents. 

The stories, recalled here by the artist, remind us that transitions are not abstract or remote, but both personal and universal.  Whether through migration, loss, or new beginnings, we all carry stories of change. Each portrait offers a deeply personal reflection on a moment when life shifted and the human spirit endured.

Some journeys began with celebration – with Olympic accomplishments, creative breakthroughs, or cultural achievements –  whilst others were born from adversity or moments that fractured the familiar and demanded new beginnings. Together, these portraits honour the resilience, determination, and hope that enable us to adapt, rebuild, and find meaning in what remains. Though each story is unique, Anthony highlights that they share one truth: change is part of every life, and we must keep moving forward.

This exhibition was commissioned by Nottingham City Museums and Galleries, with support from the Art Fund Vivmar Curatorial Traineeship, to coincide with the National Portrait Gallery touring exhibition ‘Lives in Motion: Stories of Migration from the 11th Century to the Present Day’.

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Hear more about how our Transitions sitters feel about their home and adoptive city of Nottingham

Alma

Danny

David

Iryna

Jamal

Sharon

An interview between Anthony Donnelly and David ‘Stickman’ Higgins.