Operating out of a historic brick mill in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, James Polisky creates hand-printed silkscreens that bridge the gap between fine art and subversive social commentary. A former professional drummer who once opened for the Rolling Stones, Polisky traded his drumsticks for squeegees twenty years ago, finding that the "instant feedback" of a visual connection with an audience mirrored the electric energy of a live performance.
Polisky’s work is a defiant stand for the handmade. In an era of digital reproduction and AI, he remains committed to the physical ritual of the craft: sketching by hand, exposing photo emulsions, and mixing custom inks for every layer. While his creative background includes roles in darkrooms, graphic design, and wallpaper color separation, his true voice emerges in the "diary" of his prints—a world where humans and animals intertwine through a lens of humor, satire, and brutal honesty.
Recently, Polisky’s evolution has moved toward larger, one-of-a-kind layered pieces that incorporate collage, spray paint, and varnish. Whether he is tackling a poignant political message or a low-brow joke, his work remains a deeply personal exploration of modern life.
"Inspiration surrounds us every day," Polisky says. "Between life and death, there is a lot to inhale. The trick for me is staying open to it—the willingness to acknowledge and embrace it."
Check out more of James’ work on his website, or follow him on Instagram.
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