Whether portrayed in the abstract, realism, or somewhere in between, I am most influenced by the beautiful, unattractive and sometimes humorous components of contemporary urban culture. Many times, one painting will reflect all these components.



My figurative works tend to focus upon interesting and unusual juxtaposition of images which share the same canvas. These works combine traditional portraiture with cutting-edge design. I enjoy depicting human faces and other images expressing a myriad of emotions. I want my pieces to challenge the viewer to question how these images relate to one another. A recent work entitled “Art Appreciation” for instance is intended to be a double entendre. It depicts the back of a young contemporary woman seemingly enjoying a traditional work of art. Known or perhaps unknown to her, the work of art next to her is seemingly also appreciating the view of her.



Images from the paintings categorized as my “Non-Conformist, The Grey Series” are contained in this book. This series of paintings continue to depict interesting juxtaposition of images always including the grey protagonist. However, the paintings are more sensual and provocative than my typical figurative paintings. All the paintings are intended to be a tribute to the spirit of non-conformity.



My abstract paintings reflect urban culture through the use of texture, intersecting lines and words. One of my recent works entitled “Burberry on Speed” displays the colors of a very successful couture marking brand but not in the traditional sense. Colors that are complimentary when used properly in fashion, take on a much different look when they randomly intersect creating a sense of confusion.



Several of my abstract paintings use both texture and words to convey a message about contemporary urban culture. For instance, “As Seen on TV” has a texture and color reminiscent of static so common to a vintage television set. However, the message is 21st Century with the pitch “As Seen on TV” which when stated implies in today’s culture that something is of inherently valuable because it has been seen on television.



Jim Lively is currently represented by Artists Haven Gallery located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.



www.artistshavengallery.com