There is Nothing Left to Lose - James E Smith

About

'There is Nothing Left to Lose' is an exhibition of new works by James E Smith (born 1984, England). Exploring notions of fragmented narratives and inquisitive associations, Smith shows a diverse cross-disciplinary body of work, connected only via the artist's imagination. Smith spins a web of misinterpretation, deception and insincerity leaving uncannily familiar 'moments'.

Although each piece on show stands alone as a singular works, each pertain to a common denominator… or two...or three. In 'Sculpture for an alcove or recess no smaller than a specific size (55cm x 40cm x 20cm version suitable for hand luggage)' (2008) Smith suggests that the work is part of a series or edition and that its size and its placing are the only elements of importance. The object, brightly painted with its pseudo Henry Moore curves acts merely as 'something' to fill a space, its surface and sculptural quality a distraction and insignificance to its function as an art work, door stop, coat rack, ornament for the home... The title also tells us that the sculpture complies with UK hand luggage restrictions and could be stowed underneath a cabin seat or in an overhead compartment providing it could be lifted without assistance, an ideal requirement for bringing back from an international art fair.

All the works attempt to communicate with a specific audience, a collector, a fan, Collectively the works look like a group show by a number of artists as each work takes on its own visual language. Each work relies on the relationship of the object to the title. Supporting material, stories and myths are as much a part of the work as the materials they are constructed from.

James E Smith was born in Scunthorpe, England in 1984. He gained his BA (Honours) Degree in Fine Art in 2005 from The Nottingham Trent University School Of Art. Smith has exhibited and performed at Ferens Art Gallery, Kingston Upon Hull, The Ropewalk Gallery, Barton Upon Humber, Q Arts, Derby, MIMA, Middlesbrough and in Nottingham at Surface Gallery, The Arts Organisation, The Nottingham Castle Museum, Broadway Cinema and Media Centre and Newcastle Chambers.