About
A photojournalist and fine art photographer, James Wiley's accomplishments include the NATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR award (Canada). In 1984, he was selected as one of the top 100 photojournalists in the world to contribute to the book A DAY IN THE LIFE OF CANADA, and in 1987 was invited to contribute to the book SHARE THE FLAME (journey of the Olympic flame from Greece to Calgary). In 1988, James was one of only three photographers chosen to produce the photography for THE OFFICIAL BOOK OF THE OLYMPIC GAMES. His work has also appeared in THE BEST OF PHOTOJOURNALISM, an annual publication featuring the World's best photographs of the year and is included in the book THE WORLD'S GREATEST BLACK & WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY, published in 2007. His own book IMAGES OF CABBAGETOWN, published in 1994, contrasted the lives of those living in one of Canada's most eclectic neighbourhoods and his photojournalism has been featured in newspapers and magazines internationally.
James now concentrates strictly on his fine art 'Chiaroscuro' collection.
CHIAROSCURO (Italian for clear-dark)
A term in art for a contrast between light and dark. The term is
usually applied to bold contrasts affecting a whole composition.
I have always been fascinated with the 'black and white' in black and
white photography. This body of work is a result of that fascination.
Influenced by the cinematic 'Film Noir' period of the 40's and 50's
and by the work of photographer Bill Brandt, I have compiled these
images that emphasize drama and mystery. It is much more about
style than subject matter as the only goal is always a final print of
high contrast, featuring deep, rich blacks and brilliant whites
regardless of the subject.
AWARDS
National Photographer of the Year
2nd place, National Photographer of the Year
Nikon Picture of the Year
National and international magazine awards
Numeous Canadian Press Awards
Art Directors Club of Toronto Award
NPPA (numerous regional and national awards)
International Black and White Spider Awards, 2004
(nominated in 4 categories)
Works
