Liam Ayers, 'Oh how far we've come (Tom Craft)'
60 x 80 cm
Ilford Gallery Smooth Pearl
Edition 1/2 + 1AP 
$500
 
Tom and I's friendship has always been shaped by honesty and openness. I made this portrait of tom on the last time I'd see him before I moved across the country. I wanted to mark the significance of that moment, knowing it carried closeness and the weight of distance that was about to come. Tom's always shared his vulnerabilities with me, particularly around his relationships, and in turn made me feel heard enough to share the same. This work is about us growing together and honouring that exchange, his gentleness and the way he holds space for others, and softness of masculinity. The portrait is much about our connection as it is about him, and a needed documentation of our friendship.
 
 
Liam Georg Ayres is a photographic artist located in Boorloo (Perth), following several years of study and work in Naarm (Melbourne). He graduated from Photography Studies College in 2025 with a Bachelor of Photography and Digital Imaging, majoring in photojournalism. His current practice moves between contemporary sports documentary and conceptual art, questioning ideas of connection, masculinity, and interpersonal relationships. He has a strong interest in photobookmaking and often incorporates textile-based processes into his work. Alongside his studies, Liam undertook a two-year photographic assisting apprenticeship with architectural photographer Tom Ross and completed a mentorship program with art director and photographer Ben Clement. These experiences continue to inform his approach across both personal and commissioned projects.