Sheffield Artist James Green

30 Jan

It’s time for our latest “Fellow Sheffield Creatives” feature, and this time it’s Sheffield Artist James Green and his rather wonderful printmaking.

We came across James’ work by accident and found it very interesting and asked him to be part of our quest to promote other local creatives, guess what, he said yes!

Volta: Who or what inspired you to do what you do?

James: Mainly printmaking itself, and the fun of creating new pieces of work. The excitement of revealing your new print for the first time can’t be underestimated.

Volta: Were you self-taught or have you had training?

James: I studied fine art at Sheffield Hallam University back in the early 90s, but I didn’t do any printmaking. I taught myself how to do linocut printing a few years later, and went on a course at Sheffield Print Club to learn about screen-printing.

Volta: How did your current style develop and how do you see it developing in the future?

James: I’m not really sure. I’m not really conscious of a style, but I guess I do have one. I’m happiest when working on new prints, and projects, so things develop all the time.

Volta: What influence has living in Sheffield had on your creativity and how you approach your work?

James: Hugely. I’ve met so many like-minded artists and craftspeople, made interesting connections, and taken part in some great events as a result. Also the scenery of Sheffield has had a big influence on my work. I’m mesmerised by the views within the city.

Volta: Why did you settle in Sheffield?

James: I came to study originally. I’m from Birmingham, but didn’t fancy going back there after university. I find the place very friendly, affordable and location-wise great for getting around the rest of the country too. I did move away to Leeds for a few years, but I missed the place and moved back.

Volta: What piece of your own work gives you the most satisfaction and why?

James: That is tricky. Normally the latest piece, or a recent one. Currently ‘The Donkey Village’ linocut/screen-print.

Volta: Do other areas of creativity have any influence on your work?

James: Yes, funny you should say that, but I am also a musician and have recently brought my art and music together in one place with a vinyl LP I’ve created called Donkey Jukebox.

It is intended as a soundtrack to my series of donkey prints. There is also a film version I worked on with animation house Finger Industries which you can see here: https://youtu.be/fn5vN70qCLU

Aside from that, there are so many influences, including music, film, literature etc.

Volta: If you could lay claim to one piece of creative work in any area what would it be and why?

James: Anything by Francisco Goya. I really love his work. A genius.

Volta: What is your favourite thing about Sheffield?

James: The Hills.

Volta: What advice would you give an aspiring fellow artist who was wanting to break through to the next level?

James: I’m not sure what the next level is. Work hard, be seen and be original. That’ll do.