Jess Allen: There's A World Out There

1 Mar-30 Mar 2025

Overview

British contemporary artist Jess Allen unveils her latest exhibition, There’s A World Out There, in the captivating landscape of Château La Coste in Provence, France. Allen is known for her singular ability to illuminate the profound within the mundane, and her latest series continues to explore solitude, security and the sublime within everyday life.

Following on from Allen’s breakthrough show, This is Now, with the gallery last year, the artist continues to cement her place as an increasingly compelling voice in contemporary British art. Her paintings encourage viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between external façades and internal experiences – reminding us that our most profound journeys often unfold in the quiet, familiar spaces we call home.

“In this exhibition, There’s A World Out There, I am exploring feelings relating to the inner self and our emotional well-being, and how these can be connected to a sense of place,” says Allen. “In particular, the home is used as a metaphor, acting as protector and comforter. Sofas slept upon are almost womb-like, providing an escape from the threat of a life beyond security.”
Set amid the picturesque landscapes and rolling vineyards of Provence, Château La Coste is celebrated for its unique blend of art and life, integrating art installations and world-class architecture seamlessly into nature. At the heart of the property lies the Richard Rogers Gallery, an architectural statement in its own right. Cantilevered dramatically over the hillside, this steel-framed structure – one of the final completed works by the illustrious architect Richard Rogers – provides a 27-meter-long exhibition space that appears to float amidst the Provençal landscape. 

This sleek, light-filled pavilion not only highlights Allen’s introspective paintings but also underscores the exhibition’s central themes of refuge, introspection, and the push-and-pull of the world beyond.

By staging There’s A World Out There in this remarkable setting, Jess Allen offers a truly immersive experience: her exploration of emotional well-being and solitude resonates within an architectural masterpiece dedicated to creativity and reflection. The resulting synergy draws viewers deeper into Allen’s conversation about the subtle forces – both internal and external – that shape our sense of security and belonging.