J. Adam McGalliard
J. Adam McGalliard, a Contemporary Realist artist, blends classical oil painting techniques with cutting-edge technology to investigate identity, myth, and societal divides. His layered work delves into personal narratives, archetypes, and human-nature relationships. The Erewhon series envisions potential futures in surreal landscapes, while Projections and Personas explore individual expressions and societal roles. Mentored by Vincent Desiderio and Steven Assael at the New York Academy of Art, McGalliard developed his distinctive aesthetic during his MFA studies. His work has graced prestigious venues such as Sotheby's, Museo de la Ciudad de México, and Winterrundgang der SpinnereiGalerien in Leipzig, Germany.
Q&A
What is your art philosophy?
My art philosophy is anchored in the union of the classical and the contemporary, merging the tangible with the conceptual. I believe in leveraging the foundational techniques of the past while embracing the potential of present and future tools, like technology and AI. Through my work, I aim to explore the layers of human experience, be it identity, myth, or our relationship with the world around us. Art, in its essence, should provoke thought, emotion, and discussion – and it’s this philosophy that underpins each piece I create.
What influenced your art style?
My style has been profoundly shaped by my MFA studies and the mentorship of luminaries like Vincent Desiderio and Steven Assael at the New York Academy of Art. From them, I absorbed the intricacies of classical oil painting techniques. However, I’ve always been intrigued by the digital realm and its vast capabilities. The melding of these two worlds - the age-old craftsmanship of painting and the boundless prospects of technology - has given rise to my unique art style.
What role does your artwork have in society?
My work serves as a mirror to society, reflecting both its splendors and scars. Through series like Erewhon, I highlight the ongoing dialogue between humans and nature, emphasizing the urgent need for harmony. Projections and Personas, shed light on the multi- dimensional aspects of identity in a rapidly changing world. By focusing on personal narratives, societal roles, and shared myths, I hope to ignite conversations that bridge divides and deepen understanding.
What concept or narrative is behind your work?
The overarching narrative in my work centers around the human experience in its myriad forms. From Erewhon’s surreal futures and our evolving relationship with nature, to the dualities of identity in Projections, and the ever-changing societal roles in Personas – there’s
-J. Adam McGalliard
a continuous exploration of who we are, how we present ourselves, and how we navigate our place in the world. Amidst this, there’s a nod to past narratives while simultaneously crafting new stories for our dynamic present.
Do you ever venture out of your creative process to try out new things?
Absolutely. Venturing into the unknown is integral to my process. The collaboration with AI Artist Jenny Lee Corvo, for instance, represents my enthusiasm for pushing boundaries. By utilizing AI systems that can craft images from natural language, I’ve discovered a fresh way to visualize concepts and narratives. Such ventures not only keep my process invigorated but also ensure that my work remains relevant and reflective of the times.
Which was your breakthrough piece? Tell us more about it.
“Sentinel” stands as a pivotal artwork in my journey, signaling a moment where my vision crystallized into form. This painting became the nexus of my long-standing appreciation for classical art, with unmistakable influences from masters like Jan van Eyck, and my deep-seated affinity fortimelessyetevocativesci-fielements.In“Sentinel”,therichtapestry of art history melds seamlessly with futuristic humanistic and natural motifs. This harmonious blend of the old and the new captures the essence of my aspirations as an artist, portraying the delicate interplay between identity and the larger universe we inhabit. The feedback I received from “Sentinel” only deepened my resolve to traverse this path, fusing classical inspirations with forward-thinking narratives, to create artworks that speak across ages.