Jimmie James

Focus on Jimmie James

Q. Tell us about yourself and how you came to be an artist…
A. I was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1955. I studied architecture at Pratt Institute, but then I realized that painting afforded me more in the way of expression, especially abstract painting. I have acted in a bunch of theater and film as well with pretty diverse directors and performed musically for many years as well. I love any creative pursuits and when I have taken breaks in painting over the years I have pursued them with just as much fervor.
Q. What is your creative process ?
A. I’m a big believer in showing up, picking up a brush or whatever and just letting my body and instincts give direction. To me the best works have come from learning how to surrender.
Q. Your main character trait?
A. Persistent humility.
Q. Describe your work in three words...
A. Curious, connective, surprising.

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Jimmie James is a multifaceted artist, excelling in poetry, painting, acting, and...

Q. Has your origins from NYC influenced your practice in a way?
A. Sure, I am grateful for times spent thru the nineties in NYC when Manhattan was a mecca for the arts; music, painting, dance, theater. Being in such an abundance of like minded created such an exciting and vibrant time for me.
Q. Who are the contemporary art figures who influenced you the most?
A. Always loved Cy Twombly and Amy Sillman and many others.
Q. What makes you laugh?
A. Simple things mostly. I should say that at times I can find myself laughing when I paint, I find it an extraordinary process with moments of real joy.
Q. What do you enjoy the most about your friends ?
A. Their warmth; I love that we have been there for each other through thick and thin for many, many years.
Q. Your favorite color?
A. When?, I’d ask, ha..I love them all though at times some resonate with me more then others. But if you held me to it, today I’d say orange, but ask me tomorrow and?..
Q. What makes you nervous?
A. I guess I’d say being human. Especially as I’ve gotten older I see my vulnerability on a bunch of levels I wasn’t aware of earlier. It’s tricky because it also has made me more empathetic and focused.

Q. If you could have diner with anyone dead or alive?
A. I think I’d have to say my mom. I didn’t get to say certain things to her on an adult level. She died as a younger woman. It would be nice to sit, have a meal and talk.

Q. Are you experiencing any blocks in your practice right now ?
A. No, I’m grateful to say. I do think blocks for me are really times I need to be percolating internally which I think is just as much a part of the process.
Q. Your dream of happiness ?
A. To find a house in nature I could have my son and his family come and stay and be a place of refuge for them.
Q. What makes you excited about the future ?
A. My grandchildren.
Q. Current state of mind ?
A. I’m excited to connect to more people thru my art, and grateful for the opportunity to work with The Curators on this project.