James Bland is a visual artist, teacher, and writer. Born in 1979, he grew up in Grimsby and Scotland, and currently lives in Canterbury. His visual art practice centres on oil painting, and embraces various aspects of the discipline, from direct observation to visual storytelling to semi-abstraction.

James' oil paintings are characterised by his depictions of light, unconventional colour harmonies, and storytelling. His inspirations range from dreams, literature, history, and cinema. James’ paintings are very much underpinned by traditional values of draughtsmanship and colour theory. He produces paintings that would not be out of place in the company of some of the great masters. His self-portraits are autobiographical, while at the same time they inform his constantly evolving painting practice.

A multiple prize-winning artist, James is a member of the New English Art Club and Contemporary British Portrait Painters. His work hangs in numerous collections, including the nationally-important Ruth Borchard Collection of Self-Portraits. A regular exhibitor in US art fairs and juried exhibtions, his work also features in Disrupted Realism by John Seed, an overview of 21st Century figurative painting. James is currently writing a book on portrait painting, which will be available in 2026, as well as a novel.

This brand new exhibition predominantly features oil paintings produced in the last year. The collection includes several made on location in the areas surrounding his home, with a focus on the distinctive light of bright, winter days.

‘A Dreaded Sunny Day’ will open on the 14th of February at 6PM. Join us at the private view for an exclusive first look at the exhibition and for a chance to meet James and talk to him about his work.

Browse James’ work here.