James Morse: Eastfield

“I like the land to speak for itself…We all come from the land, are nourished by it, and eventually return to it. The land is our oldest metaphor.” – James Morse

Often painted on location, in a field, or by a lake, James Morse's work looks to locate artist and viewer alike in the observed landscape - a place where impression, intuition, and expression come together.

James Morse’s paintings use the imagery of land as a language to explore the imperfections of human creativity and labor. 

Using on-site studies, he creates expressive landscapes that embrace the interpretive nature of life. 

Inspired by Abstract Expressionist painters such as Lois Dodd and Jane Freilicher, Morse’s paintings contemplate the vicissitudes of humanity on the natural world.

His paintings show paved roads in the distance, or the clean edges of a forest where the trees have been cut.

While his works are often devoid of figures in these quiet moments with nature, we still see a human presence. 

Philip Martin Gallery is proud to present, "Eastfield," an on-line exhibition of new oil-on-canvas works by James Morse. Often painted on location, in a field, or by a lake, James Morse's work looks to locate artist and viewer alike in the observed landscape - a place where impression, intuition, and expression come together.

James Morse’s paintings use the imagery of land as a language to explore the imperfections of human creativity and labor. Using on-site studies, he creates expressive landscapes that embrace the interpretive nature of life. Inspired by Abstract Expressionist painters such as Lois Dodd and Jane Freilicher, Morse’s paintings contemplate the vicissitudes of humanity on the natural world. His paintings show paved roads in the distance, or the clean edges of a forest where the trees have been cut. While his works are often devoid of figures, we still see a human presence. In these quiet moments with nature, Morse writes, “I like the land to speak for itself…We all come from the land, are nourished by it, and eventually return to it. The land is our oldest metaphor.”

James Morse (b. 1982, Hinsdale, IL) has studied at Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, CA) and Columbia College (Chicago, IL). His work has been the subject of solo and group exhibitions at Cook’s House (Traverse City, MI); Crooked Tree Arts Center (Traverse City, MI); Morsecraft Studio (Northport, MI); Wright Gallery (Northport, MI); and The Old Art Building (Leland, MI). Morse’s work has been featured in publications such as Venti Journal, Art Maze Magazine, and Dans les Yeux d’Elsa Art Magazine. Morse lives and works in Northport, MI.

James Morse's exhibition is on-line through May 12 - May 26, 2021. Holly Coulis's exhibition of new oil-on-linen paintings is on view at the gallery through May 21 - July 2, 2021.

In accordance with Los Angeles County Covid-19 protocol, Philip Martin Gallery is currently open by appointment only. To make an appointment, or to get additional images, or information please email info@philipmartingallery.com, or call 213-422-9286. Philip Martin Gallery is located at 2712 S. La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90034 in the Culver City area of Los Angeles between Venice Blvd. and Washington Blvd., just south of the 10 Freeway.