About

A view of John McSweeney's studio
Studio – May 2025

I am a painter of the human condition. I use figuration, drawing on centuries of artistic tradition, employing allegory, symbolism, and narrative to convey meaning.

A strong thread of eclecticism runs through my work, reflecting my interests and my education in art and science.
Recent paintings portray those who deal and collect art. These depictions of the art world combine elements influenced by modern and ancient art. In doing so, I explore themes common to contemporary life and that of the past. I also explore how art can be used to project power.

Essays about my work can be found here.

Selected Exhibitions

2023, London Art Biennale 2023 – ICAC Art Critics Award Winner
2021, #Shape of the New, Virtual Exhibition
2017, This England and Other Edens, Martyrs’ Gallery, Lewes (solo)
2015, Capturing the Spectacle: Paintings of Modern Life, Hop Gallery, Lewes (solo)
2014, John Moores Painting Prize 2014, Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool
1995, Woodlands Art Gallery, London
1994, Angela Flowers Gallery, London (solo)
1991, Wolfson College, Oxford
1991, Bruton Street Gallery, London
1989, Sandra Higgins Gallery, London (solo)
1989, Camden Art Centre, London (solo)
1984, Camberwell Printmakers, Intaglio Printmaker, London
1983, Stowells Trophy, Royal Academy of Arts, London

Education

Art

1984-85, Postgraduate Printmaking, Camberwell College of Art
1981-84, BA Fine Art Painting, Camberwell College of Art, London
1980-81, Foundation Course, Camberwell College of Art, London

Science and Technology

2000-2001, Diploma in Computing, The Open University
1970-73, BSc Aeronautical Engineering, The City University London

Teaching

Art

1991-94, BA Fine Art, Camberwell College (The London Institute)

Science and Technology

2000-05 BSc Software Engineering, The Open University, Arab Open University, Oxford University, University of Hertfordshire