James Stanford is an artist based in Las Vegas who creates digital montages that convey and respond to the potency of the mandala, the traditional Buddhist symbol.
Composed of digital photos of historic Las Vegas neon signage and architectural elements from the 1950s and1960s, and shot in the Mojave Desert, Stanford artfully creates mesmerizing designs using newly developed purpose specific technology. Using digital layering and mirroring of one single image he creates kaleidoscopic works that are rich with the nostalgic architecture and glamour of Las Vegas’ heyday.
As a leading maker of contemporary mandalas, Stanford’s work is an interpretation of the ancient traditions of Buddhism, drawing from historic metaphor, Chinese fable, and the aesthetics of the Tibetan Mandala. Born and raised in Nevada, Stanford grew up in a household of educators. As a young man, after a transformative and spiritual moment at the Prado Museum in Madrid opened his mind to a higher consciousness, this new spirituality became firmly entwined with his creativity. With the advent of Apple software, the tools of technology merged with his ambitious thirst for spiritual growth and education. This led to Stanford’s personal commitment to Zen Buddhism and cemented his unique creative identity.
James Stanford was also a pioneer of digital art creation, his design team actually being the first people to ever use a Mac in Las Vegas.
More info: shimmeringzen.com
