Edinburgh-based photographer James McLaren studied Marketing and Event Management at Queen Margaret University, followed by a BA in Photography from Robert Gordon University, as well as a MSc Film, Exhibition, and Curation at Edinburgh University.
Between studies he had travelled the coast of southern Spain, taking spontaneous images filled with laid-back energy and natural sunlight. During a trip to Oslo, he discovered the work of multimedia artist Alex Israel, who filled the Astrup Fearnley Museet with palm trees and surfboards, wetsuits and a life-size pier.
Inspired by the pastiche fantasy that Israel created, referencing the dichotomy between the reality of Los Angeles and pop-culture, the work that James produced started to have a more stylistic approach. Taking an extended vacation to LA, he had the freedom to create and experiment, meeting new people and making most of the sun, sea, and surf.
Forever chasing the sunset.
EDUCATION
2021
Robert Gordon University
BA Professional Photography
2018
The University of Edinburgh
MSc Film, Exhibition, and Curation
2015
Queen Margaret University
BA (honours) Marketing and Events Management
CURRICULUM VITAE
EXHIBITIONS
2022
Collective, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, Edinburgh
2021
Collective, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, Edinburgh