James Kuszewski

'Situated amidst the rolling hills of the South Downs, James Kuszewski is a Sussex based visual artist who's portfolio spans from site specific installation to illustrated music videos through to more traditional portraiture. 

Currently his work adopts an experimental technique of combining an Indian ink and a vinegar solution with pen and graphite, exploring the idea of ‘Happenings’ that pre-determine the narrative, by using the accidental mark-making of the ink, to trigger an illustrative response. Comparable with the Rorschach Inkblot tests used within psychology, he will often see something within the happenings of the ink, which he'll then begin to draw out further. Or at times he will begin working into the ink with graphite before finding the image with in it. In this sense, letting the narrative come to him.'


A word from James:

'Currently I am very much inspired by the study drawings of Pre-Raphaelite artists. The repeated and seemingly incomplete nature of these depictions of hands, bodies and fabric intrigues me; breaking down and dissecting the subject, much like in scientific anatomical drawings. This clash between 'subject' and 'object' appears to satisfy both the emotive and scientific sides of my brain. Both arguably as creative as the other. This visual reference over the past few years has begun to shape and refine my way of composing an image, especially in my more illustrative pieces and I feel it is a theme which will continue to develop.'

James Kuszewski


Exhibitions, Commissions and References:
 

2019 - New England House Open Studios Exhibition, Brighton.

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2019 - SEAS Exhibition, Brighton.

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2018 - New England House Open Studios Exhibition, Brighton.

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2017 - New England House Open Studios Exhibition, Brighton.

2016 - Commissioned by Sidekick Books, to illustrate for the final book in their flagship series 'Birdbook'.
"His attention to detail and craft, understanding and interpretation of the brief meant we ended up with a stunning illustration. A pleasure to work with." 
(Kirsten Irving 'Sidekick Books)

2015 - Commissioned by the artist 'Midas', to develop a concept, storyboard, illustrate and produce a Lyric video for his then PR campaign.

2010 - 2014 - Commissioned by the band 'House of Hats' to develop a concept, storyboard and illustrate a three and a half minute stop motion animation to synchronize to music. Additionally to illustrate for visual branding, logos, album covers, band artwork and for music advertising.

2010 - Exhibition commissioned by 'The Duke of York Picture house' in Brighton and funded by the 'National Lottery Heritage Fund' to create the site specific installation, 'The Centenary Chair'.

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