A Feigned Surprise
SOLD
Product Variations
A Feigned Surprise
SOLD
At first glance, the work of James Paterson appears to pay vibrant homage to the vintage ‘pin-up’ familiar to us from the first half of the 20th century, when style, pleasure and consumption came together in popular culture through the medium of posters and illustrative photography. The cultural significance of these images is far reaching and they have become a visual code for sophisticated and liberated lifestyle choices, making them some of the most iconic and representative styles of the modern era. But a closer look reveals that Paterson has brought together some unexpected elements to subvert the message and shift the narrative into a contemporary cultural era.
By placing each woman against a target and using bright colours, glamorous costumes and lights, Paterson has created the atmosphere of a circus ring to send a simple but effective message about the value of the individual in society. He has taken a traditional art form and applied a contemporary aesthetic, juxtaposing kitsch with irony to change the story and create a conversation piece with every image. The use of real arrows, working lights, and his technique of scoring, sanding and chipping the surface to give a worn and distressed finish all combine to give a 3D feel to each piece: another subtle but deliberate way to highlight the real-world qualities of the central figures.
UK Delivery
We offer free shipping on all online orders or collection from one of our galleries if this is more convenient for you.
Items over £5,000 will usually be delivered by our own white glove service, items below this amount are delivered by DPD.
Orders will usually be received in 7-14 days unless stated after purchase, we will contact you after you have placed your online order to confirm the details and delivery information.
International Delivery
International delivery is available for an additional cost, please contact our client service team for more information.
At first glance, the work of James Paterson appears to pay vibrant homage to the vintage ‘pin-up’ familiar to us from the first half of the 20th century, when style, pleasure and consumption came together in popular culture through the medium of posters and illustrative photography. The cultural significance of these images is far reaching and they have become a visual code for sophisticated and liberated lifestyle choices, making them some of the most iconic and representative styles of the modern era. But a closer look reveals that Paterson has brought together some unexpected elements to subvert the message and shift the narrative into a contemporary cultural era.
By placing each woman against a target and using bright colours, glamorous costumes and lights, Paterson has created the atmosphere of a circus ring to send a simple but effective message about the value of the individual in society. He has taken a traditional art form and applied a contemporary aesthetic, juxtaposing kitsch with irony to change the story and create a conversation piece with every image. The use of real arrows, working lights, and his technique of scoring, sanding and chipping the surface to give a worn and distressed finish all combine to give a 3D feel to each piece: another subtle but deliberate way to highlight the real-world qualities of the central figures.
Upon placing an order, we will promptly follow up with an email confirmation of the delivery timeline and address any additional queries you may have about your purchase, payment, or delivery. During this conversation, we will also finalize the details of your preferred delivery method.
Should you need assistance with the installation of fixings or your artwork, our galleries can provide a roster of reliable installers who can lend their expertise. Kindly inform our team before the delivery if such assistance is necessary.
Please note that this service incurs a charge. If your artwork is not yet ready to be hung, we will ensure it remains wrapped and ready for you or your chosen installer to hang at a more convenient time.
The majority of our limited edition artworks and select original pieces are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. If a certificate is available for the artwork you have ordered, it will be included with your shipment.
Yes, we ship artwork to over 180 countries. Our reliable courier partners, primarily DHL, are entrusted with shipping your artwork worldwide. Occasionally, we may also utilize services from TNT or other similar providers.
For specific details regarding delivery costs, kindly refer to our dedicated delivery page. It is important to note that additional charges for customs, duties, VAT, and other applicable fees may arise, and it remains your sole responsibility to settle these charges.
Once you have made a purchase of your desired artwork, you have the option to either have it conveniently delivered to your home or arrange for collection at a gallery of your preference (excluding our ship-based galleries).
We aim to deliver your order within 7 - 14 days unless stated after purchase.
Prior to delivery, all artworks undergo a meticulous quality check process, which typically takes up to two weeks to complete. After your order is placed, our client services team will contact you with an estimated delivery date.
If you opt for delivery to a gallery of your choosing, an art consultant will reach out to notify you once the artwork has arrived. They will coordinate with you to arrange a convenient time for collection that suits your schedule.
To ensure a secure transit, every artwork is handled with utmost care. We take precautionary measures by using foam edges to protect each side of the artwork, followed by shrink-wrapping for added safety during transportation.
Clarendon Fine Art provides a personalized white glove service that grants you the opportunity to view your preferred artwork in the comfort of your own home. To arrange an appointment with an art consultant, kindly get in touch with a gallery of your preference.