Jonathan MacAdam

MacAdam’s paintings are highly specific and precise to real life without relying on fine detail. Specifically in the panoramic works, I was reminded of Paul Cézanne’s landscapes, especially considering how structures are implied with loose post-impressionist flair. MacAdam recalls Cézanne Mont Sainte-Victoire series as an inspiration, explaining that the extended study of one singular place is something he is very familiar with: “I did the same thing with this place called Hog Island. I painted it 40 times from different angles. I love to explore one area well and get to know it intimately, like people, if you know someone well. “His marsh paintings are inspired by a particular landscape that MacAdam knows very intimately. “I think everyone has special places they go to. They’ll keep going back there because it’s refreshing to their soul. For me, that little creek is something I’ve taken my kids to, and it’s special to us. It becomes almost a spiritual place, where you get away from the world.” It comes through that he has spent a good deal of time in these places. In these paintings, MacAdam renders a very vibrant tranquility, built up with layers of glazing to bring out the true hues of life. 

-Nina Evans for THE ARTISTS FORUM MAGAZINE