James Carl is one of Canada's most respected artists, known for his playful use of unconventional materials, such as cardboard and venetian blinds. His work’s material choices are rooted in a conceptual framework which ranges from evocative and ironic critiques of globalisation and consumerism, to celebrations of 20th century modern sculpture. Impeccably crafted, his works appear at once foreign and familiar, the common objects of daily life reconfigured and reconsidered. His most recent drawings of spoons and POM juice bottles are rendered in silver leaf, each gradually developing a unique patina over time.

 

Carl has also completed numerous public art commissions including Thing's End, a gigantic blue rubber band made out of powder coated cast aluminum installed outside the TIFF Bell Lightbox in downtown Toronto. In recent years, he has completed several other public commissions across Canada and in China.  

 

James Carl was born in Montreal in 1960. He received his MFA from Rutgers University and has degrees from McGill University, the University of Victoria and the Central Academy of Fine Art in Beijing. His work is in public and private collections across North America and Europe including the National Gallery of Canada. He is currently a Professor of Studio Art at the University of Guelph and resides in Toronto.