In this collection, McQueen becomes a storyteller – as does the viewer. Each consciously selected title serves to encapsulate the essence of a narrative, allowing us to embark on a journey without ever turning a page.
Through composition and symbolism, the artwork guides us through an unfolding drama, leaving room for our own understanding and connection.
Weaving tales with his characteristic colour and form, McQueen captures one thematic narrative in a single image, whilst enticing viewers to imagine the individual stories behind it.
Much like a short story, these artworks have a unique sense of focus which establishes an immediate and amplified immersion. They spark curiosity, stimulate memories and induce a moment of autobiographical reflection.
A student of the human condition, people are at the core of McQueen’s work. Fascinated by his grandfather’s book collection as a child, he has long taken inspiration from those around him, saying, “What's art all about if it doesn't evoke an emotion or a reaction of some kind?”
Creating sardonic, subversive titles and epigrams with a take on modern life, McQueen speaks a universal language that transcends time and generations, borders and culture.
As an anonymous artist concealing his own identity, McQueen creates a similar sense of privacy between the viewer and his art. Allowing them to reminisce and reflect on their own character.
The nostalgia of his trademark vintage paperback offers an innocent warmth and comfort. Whilst the worn layers of rich colour, proud text and contemporary iconography that sit atop speak to authentic, lived experiences.
For McQueen, it was always imperative to produce a book that looked like it had been loved, which meant many hours painstakingly perfecting the technique to create his signature well-worn style.
Influenced by abstract impressionist, Mark Rothko, who famously built up his arrangements through several layers of work, McQueen applies layers of paint before sanding them down to create amazing patina and a coarse aesthetic, finished with lacquer to add extra richness and vibrancy. “Sometimes you can get the colours right after just three or four layers, but I try to push the sanding as far as I can, to the point where I have actually torn through canvasses”, he says.
From his complex application of paint to his emblematic ‘monkey’ insignia, pop and street art hallmarks can be seen throughout his work. And McQueen shares a kinship with iconic artists of these movements; he’s not afraid to push the boundaries of what people expect of art.
Art, like humour, has the inspiring ability to unite, spark conversation and evoke emotion. We invite you to dive into joy and laughter with our curated selection of trending satirical and sarcastic artworks, featuring pieces from Billy Connolly, James McQueen and Peter Smith. Browse our collectors' favourites below.
Our Liverpool gallery has a selection of specially-commissioned artwork for Eurovision, featuring Abba, Celine Dion and a ton of other music icons, so if you're visiting the city for the song contest, do come and see us. We've also got an expert guide of things to do in this exciting week leading up to the Contest!
We’re delighted to present the debut collection from James McQueen, ‘Non-Fiction’. Supercharged with colour, the book-themed launch fuses the artist’s love of vintage books with a contemporary aesthetic.
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