‘Subtle Folds’ by James Thistlethwaite on view at John Wayne Airport

John Wayne Airport has opened “Subtle Folds,” a new Community Focus Space exhibition featuring the hyperrealistic drawings of acclaimed artist James Thistlethwaite. The exhibit will be on view through Dec. 2, 2024, offering an in-depth exploration of Thistlethwaite’s masterful depiction of both the human form and multi-layered fabric.

“Subtle Folds” highlights Thistlethwaite’s exploration of candid human repose and the interplay between texture and color. His hyperrealistic drawings focus on the delicate and intricate details of fabric and skin, capturing the essence of their form with breathtaking precision. The exhibit features Thistlethwaite’s signature use of monochromatic charcoal, accented with vibrant, almost fluorescent touches of yellow.

“This exhibition is a reflection of my journey through new environments and the introspective moments they inspire,” says Thistlethwaite. “Through my art, I aim to capture the dualities of our experiences—the comfort of the familiar and the challenges of the unknown—by highlighting the intricate details of the human form and the clothing that both reveals and conceals.”

Spanning six years of Thistlethwaite’s artistic career, “Subtle Folds” showcases a selection of intimate pieces that hint at his expansive murals up to 48 feet long and 28 feet high. Each piece invites viewers to appreciate the nuanced beauty in everyday garments and the complex interplay of light, texture, and form.

John Wayne Airport invites travelers and the public to explore this captivating collection found pre-security on the lower Arrivals Level, throughout the Baggage Claim of Terminals A & B. Learn more about James Thistlethwaite’s artistic practice by visiting his website at jamesthistlethwaite.com.