James G Miles

Irish artist James G Miles was born in Belfast in 1953. He is a graduate of The University of Ulster holding a BA Honours and Master of Arts Degree.

"Galway and the West of Ireland are almost in my blood. My father first introduced me to Galway, Salthill and Barna when I was a child. I remember catching my first mackerel on Salthill beach when I was 12 years old. The water was literally alive with fish. Since that time Galway has always done it for me."

James constantly experiments with Irish scenes introducing colour and movement. He lives and works at his studio at Minerstown, Tyrella Beach, County Down.

"I love the mix of rural and coastal Ireland. The sea is very important to me. I love its movement, colour, danger and calmness. It features very often in my work and I take inspiration from the struggle for survival that coastal peoples endure. In particular I have been influenced by the history of the work boats and the Island people around the area of Galway Bay. The Galway Hookers hold a special magic for me. I love to see their majestic ruggedness as they sail 'against the odds' at almost impossible angles. These are the images, which come to the canvas through my memories, thoughts and imagination."

James' profile as an artist has increased dramatically over the past 6 years. His work is held in private collections throughout Ireland, UK, Germany, Holland, France, Switzerland, South Africa, Australia, USA and Canada. Among his collectors are South Eastern Education and Library Board for Northern Ireland, a former Miss Columbia, Sean Kelly, The President of GAA Ireland and interestingly the Private Butler to Swiss based international rock star, Tina Turner.

"I consider it a privilege to show my work in The Kenny Gallery. In doing so, the connection to Galway, which my late father started all those years ago, is maintained in a meaningful and productive way."

THE BARLEY FIELD PATH

Walking down The Barley Field Path
in my lovely Minerstown
The sea like a field of diamonds
glistens in the evening light
Coastal cottages quietly exist
at the edge of defensive dunes
Reaching the shore and a peaceful time
in the vast open space

James G Miles