Night Flight

About the Work

From the Artist

I think it has to do with dreams. That's what we are. In our subconscious, if you're lucky enough, you dream color, and I’m always flying. I don't fly as much now, but back then, I used to fly a lot. I forgot what that meant in dreams, but it has a significance and I used to always fly, because when you're in danger, or someone chases you, you can fly.
_{—Excerpted from interviews conducted by Drexel University students, supervised by Jen Katz-Buonincontro, PhD, 2021–2022}

“A life without art is like a life without air.” This statement encapsulates the life and identity of James Brantley, contemporary painter and lifelong Philadelphian.

Brantley’s works sit at the intersection of abstraction and figurative painting. Employing abstract principles of form and color, Brantley pushes the perspective and composition of his figurative paintings. His often-surreal paintings offer spaces that beg to be inhabited by the viewer. His extensive oeuvre features airy and optimistic landscape paintings, bold portraits, expansive and moody cityscapes, and thought-provoking interiors. Deeply dedicated to his studio practice, James Brantley is experimental in his approach, and has created a distinctive visual language across his ever-evolving artistic career. Brantley is both a master painter and a compelling storyteller, who continues to remain true to his artistic vision and personal identity as an artist.
_{—Adapted and excerpted from https://www.stanekgallery.com/master-artist-brantley, accessed 7-30-2021}