Finchingfield gallery to launch exhibition starring Braintree artist

The Wonky Wheel gallery, in Finchingfield, has announced it will begin a season of exhibitions this summer, starting on July 2.

The first will include Braintree artist James Cook.

James, who is studying for a master’s degree in architecture at UCL, London, has gained global recognition for his astonishing work, which is created using typewriters.

In the past seven years, James has produced more than 100 typewritten drawings.

The artist has nearly 30 typewriters – some almost 100 years old – and has produced work for celebrities, television presenters and musicians.

His work has been featured on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Sky News and BBC News and even in other parts of the world such as The Kelly Clarkson Show and The Morning Show Australia.

The Finchingfield exhibition will showcase a collection of James’ more recent works, exploring the architectural and historical landmarks of the Essex countryside, inspired by where he grew up and has been living during the recent Covid lockdowns.

Wonky Wheel owner Mary Turley said: “I’m so excited about exhibiting the latest work from James, and it was an honour to go out on location with him to get an insight into how he prepares for his drawings.

“We have some exciting locations still to be announced and some remarkably interesting buildings as well here in Essex.”

On display will be drawings of Horham Hall, the Moot Hall, Finchingfield Green and others which are still to be announced.

All of the work will be available to buy from the gallery along with a selection of prints.

Visitors to Finchingfield may even see James and his typewriters around the village and surrounding area as he works on some of his drawings for the exhibition.

James will also be at the gallery on the opening weekend with the exhibition running until July 31.

The gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm and on Sunday from 11am to 3pm. For more information, visit wonky-wheel.co.uk.