James Cochran: The Pointillist Street Artist
James Cochran, known in the street art world as Jimmy C, played a pivotal role in the development of the graffiti movement in Australia during the early 1990s. After working on various mural projects and community art initiatives, Cochran completed a Master of Visual Arts at the University of South Australia. Throughout his journey, he maintained a keen interest in oil painting, which eventually blended with his graffiti background to form his unique style.
The Unique Pointillist Technique
Cochran is recognized for his distinctive pointillist style, utilizing spray paint cans to create portraits and urban landscapes composed entirely of dots and lines. This technique involves applying small, distinct points of color to form a cohesive image, reminiscent of the pointillism movement developed by artists like Georges Seurat and Paul Signac in the late 19th century. Despite the term initially being used in a mocking context, it has endured, with many artists, including Vincent van Gogh and Camille Pissarro, adopting it.
His works often depict real people from the streets, sometimes including homeless individuals, giving them recognition and a voice through his art. The colorful layers of dripping paint create a mesmerizing effect, evolving into series known as "drip paintings" and "scratch paintings," where he employs energetic lines and drips to craft powerful and poetic urban landscapes and portraits.
Themes and Symbolism
Cochran’s narrative-driven artworks often explore themes of urban realism, portraying figures marginalized within the urban environment. He sometimes incorporates religious or mythological allegories to highlight the existential or spiritual struggles faced by contemporary individuals in the city.
Currently residing in London, James Cochran’s works on canvas and walls can be found in cities around the world, showcasing his unique approach to street art and his commitment to recognizing the stories of those often overlooked in society. His ability to blend pointillism with street art not only elevates the medium but also invites viewers to reflect on the deeper narratives woven into the fabric of urban life.
"Window to London" by Jimmy C
Jimmy C was commissioned to create a mural at the train station near Blackfriars, entitled "Window to London," which beautifully reflects the city's skyline over the River Thames.
This artwork is incredibly detailed, requiring months of preparation before the actual painting began.
“For me, this is the ultimate wall I’ve painted in my ten years in London. Not only is it a significant location, but it’s also my way of paying tribute to a city I love so much. I wanted to capture the energy and movement of the city and ensure that the central architectural icons were included. I know that the people of London will recognize the streets and places where they work and live. I hope that through the rhythm and movement I created, I evoked the feeling of how people navigate and connect with the city.”
In addition to this impressive mural, James Cochran created a portrait of David Bowie in Brixton, Bowie’s hometown, in 2013. The portrait quickly gained popularity, with photos circulating on social media among fans. However, Jimmy didn’t think much about the piece after returning to Australia. In January 2016, when David Bowie unexpectedly passed away, the mural became a focal point for fans and visitors to lay flowers and pay their respects. The portrait swiftly turned into a global point of interest, with media coverage from around the world documenting the happenings around it. Each year, as Bowie’s birthday or the anniversary of his passing approaches, Jimmy receives reports about the mural, which continues to make headlines.
For more about James Cochran and his work, you can visit his official website
This post is part of a dedicated series of posts on street art and graffiti in London
Shepard Fairey – Contemporary Activism
London's Leading Street Artists
James Cochran: Pointillism Art
Ben Wilson: Chewing Gum Art
Dan Kitchener – Urban Nights
HELCH Graffiti
Alex Arnell – Explosive Emotions
STIK – Minimalist Street Art
Otto Schade – Surrealism Art
ALO – Urban Expressionism
Space Invaders – Street Mosaics
David Speed – Neon Spray
Mr Doodle – Doodles of Joy
Nathan Bowen: Art Vigilante
London Street Art Guide
London Street Art Map
BEST Murals in London
Graffiti and street art – Leake Street Tunnel
Graffiti and Street Art Guide at Brick Lane
Graffiti and Street Art Guide in Camden Town
Among the Artists Featured in Posts About London:
Otto Schade, Zabou, Nerone, Banksy, Alice, ROA, Pasquini, Soker Uno, Gary Stanger, Irony, Dan Kitchener, Voydor, Fanakapan, DRT, Sr.X, Decolife, JXC, Marija Tiurina, Ansley Randall, Woskerski, Ben Wilson, Luke Smile, Nerone, MadC, Rosie Woods, Camille Walala, David Shillinglaw, Fin DAC, Clifton Street, Stik, Dale Grimshaw, Busk One, Bambi, C215, Phlegm, Pegasus, Invader, Jonesy, Frankie Strand, Alex Arnell, Sweet Toof, Amara Por Dios, Fanakapan, Eine, Jimmy C, Aspire, Red Romes, Nol, Mort Murray, VKM, Smackas, Benzi Brofman, Cap Sprays, Pad, Francois Got, Hunto, Alex Face, Ansley Randall, Fat Cap Sprays, Eska, Mister Tris, Snik, Mr Doodle, Shona Hardie, Abraham.O, Woskerski, Damitta, David Speed, David Puck, Olivier Roubieu, Fiya101, DFace, Layla, TRUST.iCON, Alo, Pixie, Frank Riot, Nathan Bowen