James McFarlane was born in Mildura, Victoria and grew up in the Riverland, South Australia. In 2005 he relocated to Adelaide to begin studies in Hotel Management. After completion he began employment within the private establishment clubs of Adelaide as a steward, working his way up to a management position; It was here, surrounded by both traditional and contemporary fine art that his appreciation for painting was realised. With exceptional artists and their collections becoming the backdrop to his everyday working environment.
In 2014 James acquired his first studio space at 95 Currie Street, and began making the change towards painter. While his early work was very good, it lacked the discipline and production of one with a trained art background.
In 2015 James undertook training with acclaimed artist Tony Smibert, who taught him the systems necessary to develop his ideas, translate them and execute them in a disciplined manner. It was this fundamental training that he needed to express his new craft.
James’ earlier work reflected that of traditional and conventional art. He has a keen interest in the Old Masters and made extensive studies into Dutch and Flemish technique. Intrigued by the slow building of layers to create depth within paintings.