The artists first collaborated during the 2021 lockdown creating an artwork which formed part of Beattie’s Love Knot Collaboration Series. The series highlighted the power of connection and collaboration between artists and the result revealed some exciting elements which led them to have a conversation around the C+Au concept.

The Nobu exhibition arrived at a pivotal time for each of the artists who were emerging from life changing events in a restructured, more democratic art world post-pandemic. C+Au was Beattie’s first show since becoming a father in February 2023; the artist said “having a little girl has been the most creative and rewarding creation of my life. Being a father has certainly changed my outlook on the world and I can’t wait to see how these emotions translate into new work”. Since the pandemic Beattie has been working on large-scale light installations which have been shown at various light festivals in London.

In 2019 McIntosh had a near death experience and whilst recovering from the life impacting surgeries, lockdown hit and forced isolation. Wishing to see the lessons in the new normal, he pressed pause on participating in exhibitions and art fairs to concentrate on working on more intimate commissions, where connections are central to the success and mutual enjoyment of creating beautiful work. Having taken a sabbatical to concentrate on healing, he emerged in a world recovering from a shared trauma. Following McIntosh’s personal experience, he now wishes to create work that is quiet and has a sense of calmness, encouraging the viewer to connect through the simplicity of a single breath.