Over the Influence is thrilled to announce the opening of its new gallery in Bangkok, Thailand, with the inaugural presentation, “Clean Jellybean,” a solo exhibition by American artist Todd James. The presentation is on view from November 18, 2021 to January 10, 2022.

James’ new series of paintings was created in his New York City studio over the last year. From his signature visual language emerged new formal elements—smooth, clean surfaces, juicy compositions, and lush, vibrant palettes. The absence of outlines presents super graphic color forms, enlivening old subjects and themes in an entirely fresh way. For the artist, the vibrant palette and candy-coated surfaces of the canvases felt lively and upbeat during a terribly gloomy time.

With the architecture and layout of the new exhibition space in mind, the artworks of “Clean Jellybean” are punctuated across the gallery’s floors, with each space distinguished by key motifs, such as surreal interiors, geopolitical scenes, and the candid yet surprising portraits of women. They play on the idea of infinite war, with a dynamic combination encompassing cartoon tanks, snipers, and silhouetted figures, wherein objects, ground, and space at once melt together, while also remaining distinct, clean, and crisp.

Todd James Todd James began his art career as a graffiti artist in the early 1980s New York City subway system and mastered the practical challenges of good design at an early age. He was a co-creator of “Street Market,” a major project on the post-graffiti movement that was selected for the 2001 Venice Biennale. In 2011, a recreation of this show was the central installation of the record-breaking exhibition “Art in the Streets” at Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles.  His paintings and installations have been exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide. In the commercial art world, James has collaborated with artists including Iggy Pop, The Beastie Boys, U2, Eminem, and Pharrell Williams. He lives in New York City.

Over the Influence Bangkok Over the Influence Bangkok (OTI BKK) is located in Talat Noi, Bangkok’s historic Samphanthawong neighbourhood rich with temples, museums, and artisanal shops. The gallery is located in front of a gateway with Chinese architectural details—a city landmark that was built to signify the multicultural relationship between the Chinese and Thai communities living in Samphanthawong district. It is the third international location for the gallery, highlighting Southeast Asia’s shift in paradigm to develop professional resources and grow the contemporary art community. OTI BKK’s landmark presence in the city promises a new direction in the role of contemporary art galleries by increasing international awareness of Thailand’s rich artistic identity and contemporary culture.

• Todd James
• Over the Influence