On Display | James Walker Solo Show
Visions and Revisions
Solo show of James Walker
Reception is 7pm March 14, 2024
Artist will be in attendance
Show Description
The profound words of my esteemed mentor, the great Andrew Hudson, continue to resonate in my artistic journey. He instilled in me the imperative query: “Are you making an exercise, or are you experimenting?”
This concept has been a guiding force throughout my journey for over 20 years of art making. While I often revisit familiar subject matter, my approach is always infused with a renewed curiosity, a commitment to reevaluate the significance of these themes, and an examination of the reasons they consistently captivate me.
My latest series of artistic experiments represents an ongoing, meditative exploration of some of my favorite inspirational themes, featuring animals such as birds and elephants along with various other aspects of nature and my own physical surroundings. These reference points serve as enduring sources of creative inspiration, embodying re-occurring motifs that delve into the essence of why the symbiotic relationship between art and life is indispensable to our existence. Moreover, I find joy in the realization that tackling a painting is akin to solving a
non-linear equation—there's an answer, but it exists in a fluid state rather than a fixed position.
This exhibition unfolds as a multi-faceted narrative, showcasing paintings, photography, mixed media pieces, and assemblages incorporating found wood and repurposed skateboards. Each piece contributes to this evolving expedition, offering a unique perspective on the timeless dialogue between creativity and existence.
James Walker Bio
James Walker's artistic journey is rooted in a deep desire to immerse himself in the present moment. For James, successful pieces emerge as a natural extension of his daily experiences, reflecting the ongoing narrative of his life. Rejecting the notion of creating formal "projects," he interprets his reality on a daily basis, allowing recurring themes to organically arise from this authentic artistic process.
Having never consciously decided to become an artist, James notes that creating art has been an integral part of his identity for as long as he can remember. Influenced by the DIY aesthetic of punk rock music and skateboarding that he discovered in the late '80s, he embraces a resilient and persistent attitude in his work – a mindset that echoes the ethos of these influential art forms.
After earning an MFA in photography from the Savannah College of Art and Design, James expanded his artistic exploration beyond photography. He delved into various genres, including oil painting, drawing, assemblage, and mixed media techniques. His belief in the duality of photography depicting reality and painting portraying the dream behind that reality guides his diverse and dynamic creative journey.
Animals hold a special place in James's heart, consistently appearing as a recurring theme in his work. His artistic expression spans multiple mediums, including photography, painting, and collage. Unrestricted by specialization, James's focus remains simply on creating the best possible artwork, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the craft.
In his latest series of inventions, James continues to explore themes inspired by his favorite subjects. These serve as reference points for his creativity, embodying re-occurring motifs that speak to the symbiotic relationship between art and life. For James Walker, this relationship is not just a creative pursuit but a vital aspect of human existence.
