orn and raised in south Georgia, James Willis began painting the ever-changing Manhattan landscape nearly 20 years ago, when he came to New York City for a visit and never returned home. With his stylistic use of oils and acrylics, Willis seeks to capture the dynamic beauty of the city as well as the dramatic color shifts weather and light have on the architecture, people, and streetscapes.

In this newest collection, the artist focuses on everyday New York City scenes from unexpected vantage points and perspectives. Willis paints directly from life by referencing photographs he takes of Manhattan. Whether his paintings feature a panoramic skyline or a narrow glimpse of a Greenwich Village side street, Willis’ works create an air of intimacy in an otherwise indifferent city. Rich colors, moody lighting, and diving skylines play an integral role in most of the compositions. His gestural painting style captures the movement of the city, from people crossing streets to the light relfections of billboards and taxicabs. “I see the city as a living, breathing subject.” says Willis. “It has infinite moods and complexities.”

James Willis paints and exhibits in New York City, and his work has been featured on the cover of Art and Antiques magazine. This is his second solo exhibition at the George Billis Gallery.