Exhibitions

By James A. Dowling
Instagram: @jamesdowlingart

James’ art journey began as a young boy, when, after a few primary school adventures, he decided that he wanted to be a full-time artist. Like any well-intentioned parent would, James’ mother Sally, instead encouraged James to follow in her footsteps and pursue a legal career.

During his later secondary years, James’ creative passion would flourish, exhibiting in, and winning multiple shows with his abstract portraiture as a teenager. After experimenting with etching, lithography, water colour and oils, James decided that acrylic and inks were his preferred mediums, as they dried faster, and allowed him to express himself freely without the heavy time constraints of other mediums.

James did attend and complete law school, and has worked in business development since graduation. He pursues painting after business hours, and on weekends, from his home studio in Berwick. With his young daughter, Charlotte, keenly watching on, James’ works explore the definition of ‘what it means to be human’ with his signature ‘dark and sardonic’ twist.

In his third solo exhibition, Australian fine artist James Dowling presents twelve new abstract canvases, quirkily inspired by the questions posed by author Philip K. Dick over fifty years ago in his novel ‘Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?’.

                                       Not just visually striking,
                                                           Dowling’s work presents complex layers of energetic form
                                                                                            to produce powerful statements of self-expression.

From angular arrangements of lines, streaks, drizzles, and splatters, to more serenely flowing and deliberate curves, even the choice of colour palette is purposeful and intentional in its design. Creating a balanced and harmonious form (albeit in the absence of figure) is central to Dowling’s painting.

The showcase was designed to generate intrigue and curiosity around life’s ‘big questions’ — those of individuality, freedom, expression, and identity.

Dowling’s new collection continues his exploration of the intangible characteristics that elevate one to the status of humanity. His paintings have been subtly exploring this theme for the better part of two decades.

A subterfuge runs through the exhibited works. The most vivacious, flowing, ‘living’ strokes are often presented flatly, in ironically dull, or ‘dead’, surroundings. In keeping with this concept, some of the most vibrant and striking colours form the most mechanical and formulaic arrangements. Indeed, the appearance of a Nexus-6 replicant can be deceiving, and humanity is only ascertained upon completion of a thorough interrogation.

Using a combination of mixed media and acrylic, these colourful works are sure to add a touch of sophistication to any wall, as well as being a sure-fire conversation starter.

Take some time to peruse Dowling’s paintings over a glass or two of fine wine.
Perhaps, you may even consider what renders you as human.