Duke

Jack Browning (b. 1997, London, England) is a contemporary painter whose distinctive interpretations of Western culture resonate through authentic portrayals rooted in personal relationships and cross-cultural experiences. Initially focused on traditional realism, Jack refined his approach toward expressive figurative painting after studying with renowned artists, notably Joshua LaRock, whose mentorship deeply influenced his use of color and dynamic composition.

Jack’s transatlantic perspective, shaped by music tours, extensive research, and friendships across the American West, allows him to thoughtfully reinterpret classic Western imagery, moving beyond stereotypes toward genuine representation. His cinematic color palettes—ochre-infused blues reminiscent of vintage film—highlight his fascination with how the West has traditionally been perceived through media, while simultaneously celebrating contemporary narratives.

Jack’s international recognition includes selection for the prestigious Society of Graphic Fine Art Exhibition in London, and his notable inclusion in the Taos Art Museum’s 2024 Summer Gala and Mark Maggiori's 2025 Far West exhibition. Praised by collectors, press and artists alike for his rhythmic and emotionally resonant style, Jack Browning is rapidly establishing himself as a compelling new voice bridging traditional Western themes with fresh authenticity.

In this body of work, my first-ever solo show, I have been able to involve something in my process that I had previously written off as an obstacle. However, the fact that I am a literal outsider to the geographic and cultural West actually colours my work with a unique perspective.

Like the ethnographers of old, the archetypal images of The West are imported to us here on this side of the Pond through art, music, literature and cinema. Of course, what is exported to us from the US is traditionally a very superficial artifice of the people, places and stories.And so with this body of work, I wanted to offer a nod to the media through which I see The West by utilising cinematic composition and a filmic palette but offering a deeper exploration into the people who, to me, embody *my* idea of The American West.

Collaborating with a number of incredible photographers and artists in their own right, I have brought to life some of the colourful folks I have connected with, often over social media first, and have presented them as enigmatic totems presiding over my own view of a geographic, thematic and cultural space that is not my own.