James McLean
Cartoonist / Illustrator (Montrose VIC)

James McLean is a Melbourne based, self taught artist who uses a mixture of inks, pens and pencils, as well as computer created imagery to express his passion for observing people and making social and political commentary.

McLean is inspired by the world around him and is passionate about being able to express his emotions through his art contemplating current social issues such as poverty, welfare, war, and the mistreatment of others which is clearly reflected in his work. His aim is to challenge viewers to step back and engage in the issues he addresses taking time to consider others in their community and society in general.

McLean’s art as a whole attempts to address the issues in today’s society and how as a community we need to support each other in a changing social, political and economic climate. His work has been exhibited and published both locally and international including street magazines Culturalista issue 4 – ‘Community’ and ‘Blanket’ issue 20 - ‘I think I can Fly’ an online magazine based in the UK as well as featured works in open exhibitions in Fitzroy, St Kilda and Byron Bay.

Most recently McLean participated in the Trans-Siberian exhibition which took place on a train travelling from Beijing to Moscow. His influences include Roy Lichtenstein, Osamu Tezuka, George Grosz, Gerald Scarfe, Michael Leung, Sidney Nolan and Pablo Picasso.

McLean’s current exhibition includes a collection of artwork both original and digital prints at the Hotel Spencer in Melbourne.

For commission, freelance work or other enquiries, please contact James below or call 0409 850 279 during business hours.

Contact James McLean