James Hunter
Norwich, UK
Website
jameshunter.org
How would you describe your work?
Ephemeral glimpses, captured within a single frame. My work seeks to evoke the momentary images that linger at the very edge of our vision, the subtle details that may just make us pause and turn. Like a snapshot frozen in time, my compositions aim to convey a sense of the moment, not a literal representation but an instinctual experience. Through tight crops, vibrant hues, and play of light and shadow, I invite the viewer into my world.
What inspires you?
Suburbia’s always on my mind, it's part of who I am. I’m drawn to how it can make you feel lonely, stuck in a routine, and wanting to get away. But at the same time, it’s a place where people come together and feel safe. It’s weird how you can be in the middle of a neighbourhood and not see anyone. It’s like everyone’s there, but also not there at all. In my work you will notice the absence of people but believe me they are there, it may be just a shadow, a reflection, a feeling or perhaps they are just putting the kettle on.
Can you speak about your process?
My process begins with a keen eye for the everyday. Whether capturing a fleeting moment with my camera or delving into existing imagery, I seek inspiration in the suburban world around me. These images serve as the foundation of my work before I then explore them further.
To translate these initial observations into meaningful compositions, I turn to sketching to refine my ideas, experimenting with different perspectives and compositions. This process allows me to connect with the subject matter and add elements that perhaps aren't at first present within the imagery.
Once I have a solid foundation, I tend to transfer my initial ideas into watercolour sketches. I find that the transparency and fluidity of the medium helps me to capture the essence of a scene quickly, which replicates that feeling of when I first saw it.
Finally, the act of cropping becomes a powerful tool in shaping the final narrative. By isolating specific elements within the composition, I like to try and guide the viewer's focus and emphasise the most significant details. This selection process allows me to create that sense of intimacy that I want in my work.
How did you become interested in art?
Throughout my life, I feel like I have always had a creative spark. However, despite this, I had never considered art as a viable outlet for my expression. Perhaps I was too preoccupied with other interests and pursuits. It wasn't until 5 years ago when I began to delve deeper into the world of art, studying the works of influential artists like Hockney and Hopper, and visiting art galleries more regularly, that I truly recognised my passion for art.
As a largely self-taught artist, I embarked on a journey of experimentation, exploring different artistic mediums to discover my preferred style. I began with watercolor and acrylic painting, gradually progressing to oils. Through this process, I found my artistic voice and developed a sense of confidence when approaching a new subject.
My dream is to become a full-time artist. It would be amazing to be able to spend all my time creating and sharing my work with the world. I’m working hard to build my skills and portfolio, and I’m excited to see where my art will take me. With dedication and perseverance, I hope to turn my passion into a fulfilling career.
Do you have any favorite artists, movies, books, or quotes?
To name a few...David Hockney, Alex Katz, Richard Diebenkorn, Lois Dodd, Mitchell Johnson, Milton Avery, Fairfield Porter.
