Comme Ca Art presents

‘Captive Audiences’
A selection of new works by John Hamilton

The Lowry Hotel
31st May – 11July 2007
The Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf Salford, M3 5LH

Manchester based artist, John Hamilton has a unique artistic practice, depicting figures in various disguises or costumes, centering on figures in (mis) adventurous situations. There is a continuous theme of role-play, with a theatrical element. They are sometimes story-based, and are always told with a touch of humour and a sense of loyalty.

John’s latest paintings, drawings and prints look at the relationship between humans and animals and the similar mannerisms between the two. Some of the animals are mimicking the people and vice versa. There is a sense of showmanship with man as the performer and the animals merely observing.

In some of the works the audience consists of animals watching people perform, or it may be us protecting or watching over them. As a nation of animal lovers, we often put pets high on our list of priorities. They play a big part in our lives and usually take centre stage being treated as part of the family.

There is a continuous theatrical element within the work, which makes the viewer feel they are invited to watch. John likes to think that the work will make people laugh or smile and recall a story they have read or a film they have seen.

Our history and mythology is rich with stories of loyalty between animals and their owners. Biblical, classical, fairy-tales, fables all tell tales of links with man and their animals. There is a story to be told in all the pictures. All of them have a touch of humour and a sense of loyalty.  John would like to think that the spectator would make their own comparisons and create their own tales to match their favourite ones.

John Hamilton has exhibited his work extensively in the UK and also has artworks in private collections in Australia, Germany and the USA.

A Selection John's paintings and drawings can now be purchased as limited edition prints.

John Hamilton Limited Edition Prints

If you would like further information about John Hamilton please contact: claire.turner@commecaart.com.

(Top image 'Captive Audiences, Lowry Hotel')

Home | Past | Current/Future