James Eli Bowden

I am captivated by irregular, random relationships and how they

shape everyday life. Rather than filtering out unrelated visual

information, I embrace it — transforming the unexpected into

paintings.

Each of my paintings begins with a small-scale study. These

studies are created using collage — a playful, intuitive process that

mirrors the unpredictability of life. College produces unexpected

visual relationships that cannot be preplanned. Because I allow

these surprises to guide my work, each painting stands alone.

I use a hard-edge painting style with vivid, saturated color,

typically on PVC panels. My work explores illusion on a two-

dimensional surface.

Two years ago, impressed with a very fashionable outfit my

granddaughter Dani had put together and was wearing on

Thanksgiving, I was motivated to include the world of fashion as

subject matter in my paintings. The images are inspired by the

female figure and women’s hats that have been playfully

abstracted. Images are cut out silhouettes painted with acrylic on

PVC.

After learning I would be exhibiting my paintings at One-of-a-Kind,

Dani called and asked to assist me at the show. She said,

Grandpa, I’m a better salesperson than you. Dani will be in my

booth. Come meet her.

My paintings have been included in group exhibitions at Chicago’s

Art Institute and Cultural Center, as well as at museums and

universities in Illinois, Tennessee, Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and

Michigan.