Force/Field: The Art of James Brantley

“Force/Field” is the first major solo museum exhibition of the works of James Brantley (b. 1945), who has been an integral part of the Philadelphia and American art scene for more than 50 years. The exhibition will focus on Brantley’s works from the 21st century, which arguably has been one of the artist’s most creative and prolific periods of his career. An influential Philadelphia artist, Brantley has created monumental, surrealist landscapes, urban views, and portraits capture his personal experiences and desire to connect with viewers through what he describes as “push pull color perspectives.”  The exhibition highlights the major themes Brantley explored–what he has referred to as “conceptual landscapes” as well as vignettes of urban life. A natural storyteller, Brantley creates works that are compelling, drawing viewers in with their immensity and uncanny familiarity (the urban subjects are especially reminiscent of Philadelphia). Yet the paintings lack specificity, preventing one’s ability to locate and define their imagery.

This exhibition will appeal to a diverse audience comprising university students, faculty, and staff, K-12 students and teachers, scholars from various fields, and the broader public. 

This exhibition is made possible through an anonymous fund of the Philadelphia Foundation.

EVENTS:

Thursday, January 28, 2027, 5-7 pm
Reception and Panel Discussion

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5-6 pm Panel Discussion
 The panel will feature the artist, James Brantley,  the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Elizabeth Wellington, the Barnes Foundation’s Fleischner Family Vice President for Engagement, James Claiborne, and Katherine Stanek, whose gallery represents Brantley. The panel will explore from many perspectives Brantley’s paintings and their role in the wider Philadelphia art world, past, present, and future.

6-7 pm Reception

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Thursday, February 11, 5-7 pm
Paint, Sip, and Unwind!

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Unwind, get creative, and nourish your mind and body. Enjoy delicious, alcohol-free mocktails crafted with ingredients known for their wellness benefits while guided through a relaxing painting experience by an instructor. Painting can encourage mindfulness, reduce stress, and support overall well-being—making this the perfect opportunity to slow down, connect, create, and leave feeling refreshed and inspired.

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Friday, February 5 @ 12:30 pm
Friday, March 5 @ 12:30 pm
Curator Tour

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Join curator, Erin Downey, Ph.D., for an intimate tour of the Force/Field exhibition. Learn about Brantley's process and thoughts behind his work.