There is something incredibly special about seeing an artist in their studio, holding up fresh canvases, surrounded by work in progress and the raw materials of their practice.
James Watkins' journey is as rich and varied as his art. After a visual epiphany in his late teens, he spent years hitchhiking around New Zealand, living in a house bus in Golden Bay. This spark of "irresponsible freedom" eventually led him across the globe — from editing an arts magazine in Australia to painting on the streets of Paris, exhibiting in London, and co-founding a contemporary art space in Mexico City.
Now back in Auckland, his paintings and photography bridge these global perspectives with a deep, emotional connection to the local landscape. His work acts as a visual map of his experiences, capturing the sublime textures, light, and atmosphere of the natural world. Though he is mostly celebrated for his paintings, James is also currently showcasing an incredible new photography series.
"My photographs are simply a way of heightening my own experience of the external world and sharing beauty– eliciting presence, intimacy and appreciation."
We are thrilled to bring you this closer look at his creative process. If you're interested in getting more information on available paintings and photographs, or would like to learn more about his work, please reach out to us or visit us at Lume Gallery.
