Jim Lively
Contemporary Figurative
Dallas Texas

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

My figurative work tends to focus upon unusual juxtapositions of the images that share the same canvas. I enjoy challenging the viewer to determine how the images relate to one another.  I love dealing with double entendres. A recent painting entitled "Art Appreciation" depicts the back of a contemporary young woman enjoying a work of art. Perhaps unknown or known to her, the work of art next to her is also appreciating viewing her.

My abstract paintings reflect urban culture through the use of texture, intersecting lines and at times words. One of my recent works, entitled "Burberry on Speed" displays colors of a very successful couture marketing brand but not in a 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.

I have recently completed my "Non-Conformist, The Grey Series" of paintings which is being published in a book to be released in early December 2009.  The title and theme of the book is intended to be a double entendre. First, I am a non-conformist and now grey or would be if I had hair. I will have to rely on my goatee to reflect my grey to the world. Secondly, I admire the spirit and non-conforming attitude of the grey Weimaraner dogs that I have shared the roof with various times over the past 30 years. The whole series of paintings are a tribute to the spirit of non-conformity.