In James Brantley's Deep Space, 2006, spherical shapes—some of which are legible as hot-air balloons while others appear to be planets and striped beachballs—share an all-enveloping dark-blue expanse that could be perceived variously (depending on the dramatically differing contexts proposed by the differing types of spheres) as sky, the "deep space" of the title, or even water (a striped beachball appears to cause a splash). At the bottom center of the composition is another ambiguous shape: an open-topped rectangle that could be a container or, perhaps, a passenger-basket detached from its traveling balloon.
_{—From Brandywine Workshop and Archives records}

“A life without art is like a life without air.” This statement encapsulates the life and identity of James Brantley, famed contemporary painter and life-long Philadelphian.

Brantley’s works sit at the intersection of abstraction and figurative painting. Employing abstract principles of form and color, Brantley pushes the perspective and composition of his figurative paintings. His often-surreal paintings offer spaces that beg to be inhabited by the viewer. His extensive oeuvre features airy and optimistic landscape paintings, bold portraits, expansive and moody cityscapes, and thought-provoking interiors. Deeply dedicated to his studio practice, James Brantley is experimental in his approach, and has created a distinctive visual language across his ever-evolving artistic career. Brantley is both a master painter and a compelling storyteller, who continues to remain true to his artistic vision and personal identity as an artist.
_{—Adapted and excerpted from https://www.stanekgallery.com/master-artist-brantley, accessed 7-30-2021}