James McFarlane
James was born in Mildura, Victoria and grew up in the Riverland in South Australia. As a young adult he relocated to Adelaide and began employment in the establishment clubs of Adelaide. It was here, surrounded by both traditional and contemporary fine art that his appreciation for painting was realised. James would assist with the task of hanging exhibitions, an intimate and tactile job. Often meeting with the makers, themselves to discuss display arrangements. A yearning had begun, a yearning to be a part of this creative world.
In 2014, James acquired his first studio space in Adelaide Currie Street and began making the change towards becoming a painter. Although, his early work showed promise, he undertook further training with acclaimed artist Tony Smibert, who taught him the technical skills necessary to develop his ideas, translate them and execute them in a disciplined manner. This fundamental training assisted James to enhance his creative development and consolidate his knowledge of new techniques. James believes that the treasures and objects that he has selected for this new series of paintings are not necessarily valuable or pretty, but they have meant something to someone, family or a part of history. He believes that there is always a a thread, a dialogue between them a sentiment that he hopes reaches the viewer.