John Adams - Cork

Irish artist John Adams, Cork

An exponent of the role of the artist in society, John Adams sees himself as an activist artist, his works often are part of some campaign John is associated with, he seeks the truth in the events that have shaped the 20th and early 21st Centuries. His work spans the years before and during the Celtic Tiger in Ireland, "Patrick's Bridge" 2008 highlights the demolition of old Cork Architecture, "Homeless" 2017 records the effects of the recession on the most vulnerable citizens in Irish society. The painting of the RMS Titanic 2016 coincides with John's move to the town of Cobh.

John's early work was heavily influenced by the Pre-Raphaelite painters and by fellow Irish born artist Francis Bacon. Over the last ten years John was compelled towards realism in a quest to improve skills and to record the destruction of old heritage buildings. Portraiture is a compelling way to express the human spirit and John’s portraits seem to have a vitality and passion rarely seen "Luke Kelly" 2014. More recently, John has returned to more expressive paintings inspired by his imagination and sub conscious mind. However, his talent lies in his heart and soul. Painting freely and exploring visions in his imagination is what he does best.

Recently working on a series titled "Animals Matter", highlighting extinction and how animals are struggling to survive because of humans. I have been painting reptiles because they have been surviving so many millions of years. They look ancient and they are asking the question, what are you doing? Why are you destroying the World? I am also painting animals in the Oceans which are struggling to survive because of human activities.

John's Website: https://www.johnadamsartist.ie/