James Fee Revisited

James Fee Revisited January 4 — April 30, 2023

James Fee [b. 1949 Knoxville, IA] was only 56 years old when he passed away from liver cancer in 2006. He left behind two distinct bodies of work, "Photographs of America" and a series of nudes that were influenced by Cezanne and Edmund Teske. CEG first showed his work in 1993, and in two more group show before his solo exhibition in 2000.

"Photographs of America” focused on the changes he saw happening in America including images of abandoned industry, apocalyptic cities, and profound loneliness. As he said in a 1999 interview in the San Francisco Chronicle, "Anything that was being torn down and removed from our landscape was of interest to me, because I feel that is what is happening to us as individuals."

His figurative work tackled society’s obsession with the female form. In numerous pieces, Fee addressed sexuality by photographing its taboos including naked bodies, a naked woman satisfying herself, and couples together in an obvious embrace. Using art historical and religious references within his titles, Fee opened the door for direct interpretation, adding visual and textual clues. Correggio, in which two blurred women recline in laughter, directly refers to the famous “Jupiter and Io” in which a young woman and an amorphous figure, who appears in a cloud of smoke, engage in a passionate embrace.

Shortly before Fee passed away, CEG received a large box with the following note:

Dear Catherine: I have wanted to send you this gift of my photographs for several years now. I know you put a lot of energy in my work, and I left rather quickly. You must’ve lost money on the last show with all the framing and promotion. I hope the small gift of a few photos might help pay you back… Please feel free to do as you like with the photographs, keep for yourself or sell. Thanks, James Fee.

In the spirit of this gift, CEG is offering his photographs for $1200 each, regardless of size or series. All pieces are in terrific condition and signed by the artist. Please email for all inquiries catherine@edelmangallery.com

In the spirit of this gift, CEG is offering all photographs for $1200 each, regardless of size or series. All pieces are in terrific condition and signed "James Fee, Artist Proof" or simply signed. Please email catherine@edelmangallery.com for all inquiries