Internationally acclaimed UK artist Anthony James opened his exhibition in collaboration with Melissa Morgan Fine Art at the W. Keith and Janet Kellogg University Art Gallery Sept. 16.
James is a Los Angeles based artist who grew up in London. He is the first and only visual artist to have work exhibited in all seven continents, including Singapore, Dubai, London and New York. One of James' sculptures was even featured in the 2022 Netflix hit movie "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery." His art has also been featured in publications like The New York Times, Vogue and Forbes.
James' artwork in the gallery features visionary art pieces mastering a diverse range of topics, such as art, science and spirituality. The light installations are called "Portals," and each one is made with glass, LED lights and stainless steel, bronze or brushed steel.
Through his transformative vision, the installations are able to be left up for interpretation. He illustrates the cosmic realm by intertwining light, space and movement with heavy themes of space, light and science.
Curator of the Kellogg gallery Michele Cairella-Fillmore resonated with James' art and wanted to bring his work to campus, believing students would enjoy this collection.
"I want students to not just learn about art when they come in and create dialogue and read what's on the wall to try and understand it," Cairella-Fillmore said. "But I also want them to walk away and go, 'Wow, that was cool.' That's art you know."
The breathtaking gallery is the perfect escape for students to view incredible art while also taking a breather from class. Digital marketing graduate student George Barahona plans to visit the gallery soon.
"I love going to art galleries for the reason that no matter who the artist is, that art piece is one of a kind," Barahona said. "You are always seeing an art piece for the first time, which is a unique feeling that can't be replicated."
Visual communication design student Dom Almario was thrilled to hear James' exhibition would be opening at the campus gallery. Earlier this summer, James' light installation mesmerized Almario while visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum.
"Though his pieces are simple and geometric in form, they have a complexity that feels ethereal and cosmic," Almario said. "As someone who takes interest in art and design, [James'] work sparks the creative mind to ponder, reflect and imagine infinite possibilities."
"If students walk away understanding what that is, that art could be more than just a pretty picture on a wall, then I've done my job," Cairella-Fillmore said.