James Talmadge Biography
James Barry Talmadge is a contemporary American painter influenced by neo-impressionism. Born in Los Angeles, California, in 1947, he grew up immersed in the post-war Hollywood culture of mass media/entertainment which transformed the social hierarchy to idealize the artist as both creator and celebrity.
His colorful and often whimsical works have appeared in hundreds of galleries around the US, Europe and in the Far East, where he has frequently appeared on national television. During a cultural exchange program with Cuba, his art demonstration was broadcast around the world by CNN.
Talmadge is best known for his interest in people at leisure, inspired by the crafted images of Hollywood lifestyles as well as the architecture and symbols of the media culture and cult of celebrity. His oil pastel works are often frenetic and hurried to offer a sketch-like portrayal of various imagery.
In 2002 Talmadge moved to Canada where his work has since evolved to include winter scenes.