James Caley is a multi-disciplinary artist working in the fields of experimental poetry, music and painting. To date he has three published collections of poetry; CityBeating and Other Poems, 4 Steps From The Wire ( residing in the National Poetry Library ) and Minutes.
Self-taught or art school?
I did an experimental poetry module as part of my creative writing study at Kingston University. Everything painting wise however is self taught.
If you could own one work of art what would it be?
Woman in a Chemise, 1906 – Andre Derain. It’s in the SMK, the National Gallery of Denmark. And its the first painting I saw that moved me. Something in his use of colours.
How would you describe your style?
My style is largely based in the world of “Poem-Brut” of collage and colour and in the experiment.
Is narrative important within your work?
Within both poetry and painting narrative is important. Poetry Ive always felt to use as a more personal release/ therapy, a narrative closer to my own. In my painting, I use more broad narratives. I try to play with the idea of a changed perception of reality or of known “normality.”
Who are your favourite artists and why?
The Fauvists and Surrealists. The Fauves for their use of colour, the Surrealist’s for that altered perception. And also Marcel Duchamp, with his collage approach to the found object.
What or who inspires your art?
Things that inspire me, poetry wise, often come from people, from snippets of conversation in passing, or hearing a certain lyric at a certain time, or elements from the news. I like to take from my surroundings, but play with the immediacy, so some aspects of the poem are close to me and others are more general.
Are there any recurring themes within your work and can you tell us about them?
A sense of time seems to recur, whether it’s a dated piece or even a time restricted session of making.
Where’s your studio and what’s it like?
My studio is the front half of my dad’s garage, his work shop is in the back.
Do you have any studio rituals?
There has to be music. If there’s no music on, nothing’s getting done.
What are you working on currently?
At current I’m working with Selwyn Leamy on producing a series of “sur-reality” oil paintings.
Where can we buy your art?
Some of my poetic works are available to purchase at www.jamescaley.art
I’m also open to commission work.
What are your ambitions?
My ambitions are to keep creating. Always.
For more information, visit:
www.jamescaley.art
@jamescaley
