James Cullen (artist)

James Cullen was born in 1942 to Anne Lennon of Birkenhead and John Joseph Cullen of Liverpool. James's father was an engineer and served in Sierra Leonefor national service. James Cullen, the son and artist, left home at fourteen and attended Stafford College of Art. While there, he studied fine art and experienced some difficult times. He married his wife Judith in 1966. He now lives and works in a 16th Century Sutton House in Endon, which he shares with his wife. For many years, James has worked with adults that have learning disabilities, and draws inspiration from these associations and relationships. The subject of his work is dark and is initially seen to be using styles associated with Francis Bacon--whom he met though Roy De Maistre in the 60's. However, this suggestion is unfounded and is only based on his use of material. Much of James's work since 2000 has been produced entirely with paint rollers and without brushes. This explains his fresh style and the scale of his canvases--which to paint with brushes would be a substantial feat. James also draws inspiration from the library at his Sutton House and he will continue to explore this theme through the production of many series of drawings and paintings. James has two daughters. Beth, who won first at John Moores University in Liverpool for a sculpture which will be put in the Royal College of Art sculpture department in Battersea London, and Eve, who is considered exceptionally talented and she studied at Cordwainers in London. Eve now operates as a freelance consultant designer. James's son--also named James--is a craftsman turner and supports his father in canvas production and gallery shows. Details of the artists life and work can be viewed at www.jamescullen.com and at www.cullenstudio.com