JAM 2017

James Jean made *JAM* and, wow, what a trip. This is a painting where the act of making is totally upfront, like a conversation between the artist and the canvas. The colours are so saturated, they jump out at you. Look at the way Jean layers the paint, it's thick in some places, thin in others, creating this incredible texture. The forms are soft, but outlined with a heavy line. It reminds me of some of Elizabeth Murray’s earlier paintings. My eye keeps getting drawn to the figure with the blond hair and green arms. It looks like they are interacting with the blocks in a playful way, there is so much happening. The whole composition is a vibrant chaotic mess. It is this ongoing conversation and exchange of ideas across time, which makes art so exciting.