Making An Impact At Mackenzies : A New Venue For JOT’s Environmental Artwork
The large, stunning, colourful collages by James Owen Thomas on permanent display at Mackenzies in Blubberhouses near Otley have already attracted widespread attention and praise.
JAMES OWEN THOMAS
From 2nd March and on the first Saturday of each month, visitors will have the opportunity to see James demonstrate his unique form of environmental art in his new gallery space on the first floor. His Giclee prints, cards and other merchandise are on sale in the downstairs shop at Mackenzies. On Saturday 9th March between 10am and noon, he will be hosting the first in a series of art workshops for all ages (cost £15 per adult, £7.50 per child). Bookings for the workshops can be made via www.mackenziesyorkshirefarmshop.co.uk (Tel: 01943 880369).
James has made his name as an artist who transforms unwanted and discarded materials such as lottery scratch cards, tickets, single use plastic and packaging into expressive, creative works that highlight the issues faced by our environment and the problems we need to address.
Since James was appointed by the Tree Council as a Force for Nature ambassador, he has been able to spread the message to young people across the country that we must all do more to help our planet before it is too late. James’ profile was further raised by an invitation to meet the Prime Minister at No10 Downing Street, a significant presence at the COP26 Climate Change Conference in Glasgow and an appearance on BBC Gardener’s World hosted by Monty Don. A book about James’ life, his autism and his art has been commissioned by Bloomsbury and will be published early 2025.
His work has been called “truly inspiring and thought-provoking” and he has been described as “an artist with a different vision and innovative way of working.” For more information about James or interview requests, visit www.jamesowenthomas.com or contact him at art@jamesowenthomas.com or mobile: 07957 209987.
Mackenzies Farm Shop and Café: Wood Nook Farm, Hardisty Hill. Blubberhouses, Otley LS21 2PQ
James’ future exhibitions will include:
The Art of Recycling at the Yorkshire Arboretum, Castle Howard YO60 7BY (22 March – 28 April) and Horticap, Otley Road, Harrogate HG3 1QL (30 Sept – 22 Dec).
