James Collins' work intertwines signs, symbols, and meanings at the core of the painting process. His textural paintings, often draped in warm earthy and cool blue tones, invite viewers to explore the concealed complexities of meaning, materiality, and artistic creation. The resulting compositions break free from specific temporal references and illusions, instead weaving a tapestry of symbolic signs and geometric pathways inherent in the logic and formality of painting.
Collins' works possess enigmatic qualities, characterized by a deliberate concealment of direct meaning. Over the surface of his densely textured paintings, a closer examination reveals the vibrancy of colours as they come to life through the interplay of reflected light. In his practice, Collins employs a primitive approach that includes carving and scraping techniques. These techniques serve to accentuate particular formal aspects such as light and movement, as well as to infuse a sense of depth into the artwork. The physicality and presence of his pieces are underscored by the layers on the surface and the occasional use of metal frames, all of which contribute to his exploration of materiality and the potential for deeper meaning within the realm of painting.
James Collins (born in 1992 in Darlington, UK) graduated in 2017 with a Master of arts from Royal College of Art, London. Recent solo and group exhibitions include Encounter Contemporary, Acro, Lisbon (2023); PM/AM Gallery, Dallas Art Fair, Dallas (2023); The Reason for Painting, Warwick Art Centre, Mead Gallery (2023); 38, PM/AM Gallery, London (2023); Here and Long Ago, curated by Tesoro, Gerhard Hofland, Amsterdam (2023); Claas Reiss, Art Brussels, Brussels (2022); Occultation, CAR DRDE, Bologna (2021, solo); 14, PM/AM, London (2021, solo) Penumbra, Claas Reiss, London (2021, solo); Alte Freunde, neue Freunde, Claas Reiss, London (2021). His work is part of the Simmons and Simmons collection as well as many other private Collections across the UK, Europe, America, Canada and New Zealand. The artist lives and works in Darlington.