Jim Dowie

The iconic monochrome faces created by Jim Dowie emerge from the canvas through an abstract world of colourful intersecting lines. Each feature is beautifully described, yet close examination reveals that the immaculate detail is the result of a seemingly haphazard linear journey through a wide spectrum of light and energy

Jim’s highly personal and recognisable style developed in a fascinating way. He spent some time working as a fingerprint expert in forensics and he was struck by the artistic possibilities of the unique sequences and formations formed by the whorls and ridges. This led him to start exploring non-uniform linear structure which he describes quite simply as ‘the art of line”.

Using acrylics he began to experiment with linear abstract patterns, and as he manipulated and worked with the concept of ridges and shadows he found it afforded the perfect basis for expressive portraiture. Over time he has developed the iconic images that he creates today, an intriguing and imaginative blend of loose, colourful abstract with extraordinarily lifelike faces.

Jim is a self taught artist who created his own unique methods and style, but he is trained in Typographic and Graphic Design. He successfully ran his own design business for several years, although he was always fascinated by creativity for its own sake and working on his art alongside this. He now works from his studio in the grounds of his 400 years old country house in a picturesque Staffordshire hamlet. His icons are gaining renown the UK and Australia, and he recently exhibited in Northern Italy, receiving commissions for private clients both here and abroad.