JM Stubbs is an insightful artist whose creative process is anchored in a dynamic exploration of perspective. Serving as both a stylistic hallmark and a vehicle for storytelling, his approach to perspective draws inspiration from a rich array of artistic traditions and cultural influences. Stubbs skillfully navigates the intersection of past and present, weaving together historical artistry with contemporary ingenuity to create captivating compositions.

At the heart of Stubbs's perspective is a deep appreciation for the Trecento period in Italy, which developed during his studies in Florence. This pre-Renaissance era marked a pivotal exploration of dimensional realism and linear perspective. Artists like Giotto exemplified this approach, creating narrative scenes with dimensional backgrounds and subjects with realistic texture and weight, yet not quite able to unify them into one three-dimensional space. Instead, realistic objects are stacked in front of the background in a series of flat planes, creating the illusion of depth—much like a theatrical set or diorama.

In his latest series, Stubbs delves deep into the iconic imagery of the Wild West, paying homage to the legends of spaghetti Westerns and Hollywood heroes. Growing up in Texas, Stubbs developed a deep affinity for the Wild West and its enduring cultural mythology. His childhood experiences exploring the Texan landscape and immersing himself in Western lore inform his artistic choices and subject matter. By incorporating elements of Western iconography into his artworks, Stubbs creates narratives that resonate with themes of nostalgia and frontier spirit.

The choice of spaghetti Westerns reflects Stubbs's fascination with Trecento perspective, finding a connection to the layered compositions of early film sets. Painted backdrops hung behind live actors and movable set pieces are arranged to create the illusion of depth in the same way Giotto arranged his paintings.

But Stubbs is not content to simply replicate the past—he is a trailblazer in his own right, infusing his work with elements of Pop-Art and digital innovation to create compositions that are both timeless and timely. Embracing a collage-like approach to artmaking, he digitally assembles reference photos and drawings, arranging and rearranging layers to compose the desired scene before translating it onto canvas. Through the strategic use of layering and drop shadows, he brings his subjects to life in a way that is at once flat and dynamic, inviting viewers to explore multiple dimensions within a single frame.

Central to Stubbs's process is his use of a vibrant color palette that reflects the bold hues of Pop Art while also incorporating elements of Impressionism, Pointillism, and digital pixelation. To accentuate the differentiation between the layered planes within his compositions, Stubbs utilizes different types of paint for each layer, resulting in distinct finishes and textures that enhance the illusion of depth and dimension.

Stubbs often utilizes a black and white palette for his subjects, harkening back to the nostalgic aesthetic of old photographs and film reels. This choice not only adds visual interest but also serves as a commentary on the psychology of nostalgia, inviting viewers to reconsider familiar narratives through a monochromatic lens.

Overall, Stubbs's use of perspective is a testament to his creative vision and technical skill. His compositions not only reflect a deep understanding of art history but also push the boundaries of contemporary visual storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on the timeless interplay between form, color, and dimension.

J.M. Stubbs

Lauren