Jim Grundy

Jim Grundy’s acrylic paintings are inspired by the relationship between the colours and patterns found in the natural and built environment. The compositions are developed using mathematical processes including symmetry, reflection and rotation. The interaction between chance and control is a significant factor in the development of each work. The chance element involves allowing the painting to develop and build up layers instinctively, letting gravity dictate the flow in a similar way to the process of sedimentation. The control element involves precise preliminary drawings usually mapped out on graph paper then projected and transferred onto the paint surface. In time the balance between the colour intensity, shape, size and texture of each element crystallises.

Travelling often provides the stimulus for new work. One series of paintings was drawn from the colours and rock formations of the great national parks in USA referencing pottery and textile designs. Similarly, floor and wall tile patterns, especially from the historic towns of Spain, have provided the catalyst for a series of paintings inspired by the distinctive colours of traditional Spanish houses.

Another recent series of paintings titled ‘Figures’ references the...

Jim studied Fine Art: Painting at Maidstone College of Art. Alongside the development of his own practice he pursued a parallel career in art installation and management which included two decades working at the Tate Gallery, realising some extraordinary exhibitions of the world’s most inspiring artists. In his role as Head of the Art Handling department he also collaborated with architects on the design of galleries and art storage facilities, most notably Tate Modern and the Centenary Development at Tate Britain.

Following this he joined an international art shipping, installation and storage company where, in addition to managing museum exhibition and storage projects, he project managed the development of five large scale museum standard storage facilities. He is currently working as a full time artist.

2025
Royal Academy Summer Show
The Other Art Fair London
The Space Between, Tarpey Gallery, Castle Donington

2024
BSA Open, Bath
A Space for Art, MYO St. Paul's London
AKA Gallery Open, Cambridge
The Other Art Fair, London
Tarpey Gallery, Castle Donington

2023
FStone Gallery Open, Folkestone
The Other Art Fair, London
Tom Cox Gallery Open, Crystal Palace, London
Art Maze, Bargehouse, OXO Tower, London

2022
Affordable Art Fair Battersea – Steidel Contemporary
Artists’ Open House - Dulwich Festival

2021
Artists’ Open House - Dulwich Festival

2020
Art Palm Beach - Steidel Fine Art

2019
Red Dot Miami - Steidel Fine Art
Olympia Art Fair - Steidel Fine Art
Artists’ Open House - Dulwich Festival

2014
Dulwich Picture Gallery - Friends Open exhibition

2013
Jeannie Avent Gallery - Solo exhibition
Artists’ Open House - Dulwich Festival

2005
Artists’ Open House - Dulwich Festival

1993
Gallery 47 - Paintings by Sean McCracken, Rosey Briggs and Jim Grundy

1992
Morley Gallery – Tate staff exhibition
John Jones Gallery – Artists in the Arts

1991
The Art Haus Gallery – Solo exhibition

1990
Galerie Dagmar – Paintings by Graham Crowley, Peter Ellis and Jim Grundy

1986
Soho Poly Theatre Gallery – Solo exhib...