james wyper

Phoenix, 90” x 60”, ‘07

Phoenix was commissioned by a friend who was re-inventing himself. I made it bold, sensuous and larger-than-life, just like he was. Not long after receiving the painting, he moved to California, enrolled in acting lessons, and embraced the artistic life he’d always wanted. Then my friend fell ill, and before too long, he passed away from us. 

I record states of being in my work, usually my own, but sometimes other people’s. When I made Phoenix, I thought of my friend and his life and tried to illustrate what might be happening for him. He sent me a text one night, saying that he was drinking red wine and staring at the piece and that he loved it. I’m happy for the effect it had, and that it acted as a mirror for a good person.