James Terrell
Transcendence: Beyond the Terrestrial Plane
December 2 – December 22, 2023

As humans we are more than what we see on the surface. We are more than just flesh, blood and bone. There are multiple planes of existence. There are multiple layers within our physicality and mental capacity. Within and around us are unseen but immensely felt dreamlike realms that intertwine our mind and body and guide our day-to-day existence. We are not just humans that solely exist on the planet, we also exist and are connected to the cosmos. We are simultaneously and figuratively existing within unearthly interstellar planes.

In Transcendence: Beyond the Terrestrial Plane, Terrell incorporates line, shape and pattern immersed and fused together with fabric, paint and paper using the style of collage. The figures in the art seem surreal and otherworldly. The art is optically striking and must be given time to unfold in the eyes as the brain of the viewer processes what is being observed. The art of James Terrell is inspired by the stained glass windows found in churches. Terrell’s artwork incorporates the principles of vibration and movement found in op art as displayed by artists Bridget Riley and Victor Vasarely. The contrasting colors and patterns cause the artwork to vibrate. The use of contrasting colors radiates energy. Terrell also uses the color-blocking technique of color theorists Josef Albers and Johannes Itten to show how various colors and patterns respond and interact with the eye and brain of humanity when placed side-by-side within and around the subject matter of the figure.

About the Artist:

James Stephen Terrell is a native Washingtonian who was reared in Ward 7. His parents are Rev. Dr. James E. Terrell, Pastor of historic Second Baptist Church of Washington D.C. and retired Superior Court Associate Judge Mary A. Terrell of the Superior Court of Washington D.C. He received his high school diploma from Gonzaga College High School, his Bachelor of Fine Art from Howard University, his Master of Fine Arts from Parsons School of Design, and the Master of Divinity Degree from the Union Theological Seminary, with a concentration on theology and the fine arts. While attending Union Theological Seminary, he also pursued fine arts painting elective courses at Columbia University. Terrell has taught art for over fifteen years in DCPS and DCPCS schools, has exhibited his work all over the country and has had multiple solo shows, including at museums. James Stephen Terrell is married to artist Zsudayka Nzinga, and together they have 3 children.