James Cross
James Cross’ practice examines emotional states, thought patterns, and the construction of the self. His works exist as single points in a narrative, with an intended before and after. They investigate the subtleties of everyday interactions and human responses through a reimagining of the familiar, it is through this intimacy of the everyday that the works can find their potency.
Within his object oriented practice, the craft of making is essential; material relationships, the explicit handmade nature, and the time imbued in the works all act to draw the viewer into the narrative. Throughout his work, James is looking for ways in which the artworks, and the relationships between them, can create atmospheres within and around themselves. This is achieved through an intentional method of making, the use of imagery suggestive of ongoing narrative, and the exploration of how we relate to objecthood.
The role of play is integral to James’ practice, informing both the content and the creation of the works. It is through this vital characteristic that the works can simultaneously be honest, earnest, funny, and engaging.
Education
Ruskin School of Drawing and Fine Art, Oxford University. BFA Fine Art. First Class Honours. 2010-2013.
Oxford Brookes University. Foundation studies in Art and Design. Distinction. 2009-2010.
Solo Exhibitions
To be undoing is to be undone? Storhaug, Ålvik, Norway, 2018.
Another point of you. Recent Activity, Birmingham, UK, 2018.
Selected Group Exhibitions
EPOCH, Tremenheere Gallery, Cornwall, UK, 2024.
The Amber Room at Matt’s Gallery, Exhibition and Supper Club, London, UK, 2023.
The Amber Room x Reference Point, Exhibition and Supper Club, London, UK, 2022.
WSP32 Winter Sculpture Park, Gallery No.32, London, UK, 2022.
Restriction, Correspondence Collective at Clayhill Arts, Somerset, UK, 2021.
WSP32 Winter Sculpture Park, Gallery No.32, London, UK, 2021.
Southwark Park Galleries 36th Annual Open Exhibition, London, UK, 2021.
The Amber Room II, Exhibition and Supper Club, London, UK, 2020.
Don't Touch Me, Newcombe House, London, UK, 2020.
Fluffy Disk, Ajuntament del Bruc, El Bruc, Spain, 2019.
Rejected, Bow Arts Project Space, London, UK, 2017.
Waiting Room, Chelsea Waterside ArtSpace, London, UK, 2016.
New Sensations, Victoria House, London, UK, 2013.
Ruskin Degree Show, Old Power Station, Oxford, UK, 2013.
Trial, 74 High Street, Oxford, UK, 2013.
Pigeon Place, Ovada, Oxford, UK, 2012.
Free Cake, Dilston Grove, London, UK, 2012.
Residencies
Can Serrat Artist Coordinator, El Bruc, Spain, November 2018.
Kunstnarhuset Messen Artist in Residence, Ålvik, Norway, April 2018.
Can Serrat Artist in Residence, El Bruc, Spain, February 2018.
Awards
West Dean Tapestry Commission, 2016, Commendation.
New Sensations, 2013, Shortlisted.
Kevin Slingsby Prize for Funnel Vision, 2013, Winner.
Publications
Parasitio, Can Serrat editorial collection, 2019.
Recent Activity Annual 2018.
Circle Quarterly Art Review, Spring 2018.