James LaMantia

As the founder, and now Co-owner of LaMantia Galleries, James LaMantia’s career in the fine art world started as a young man. James was inspired and encouraged by the artists, musicians and educators within his family. James graduated from SUNY New Paltz with a BFA in Painting. He had several exhibitions throughout New York and Long Island while managing a gallery on Madison Avenue. At the age of 26, in 1990, James opened his first gallery and would showcase his art periodically throughout his career.

James' primary influencers were the American Abstract Expressionists and the avant-garde work of the famed Spanish painter, Antoni Tapies.

James’ art has an equal balance of painting and drawing. Drawing is an integral part of his art. James also wants the viewer to explore the textural surface of his paintings and delve into the layers of paint. For James. it is less about the final image and more about the evolution of the piece. As such, rather than titling his artwork, the paintings are numbered allowing viewers to experience the work and form their own conclusions. James' many admirers enjoy the path to discovery!