James Owen's digitally rendered 'Design Episodes'

James Owen, a London-born LA-based creative, is making some pretty cool art inspired by the seemingly incongruous combination of mathematic principles and flowing natural forms. Previously the Creative Director at multidiscipline studio ManvsMachine, Owen worked with international brands such as Nike and Apple before deciding to focus on solo projects.

His ongoing body of work Design Episodes presents ideas and concepts in sets of three digitally rendered images or videos. The episodic structure allows Owen to weave a different narrative throughout each work.

Inspired by mathematical equations, ‘Flourishing’ is a study of light, shadow, form, and function. Owen creates intensely layered, hollow forms that rotate in a continuous unfolding motion. Built on the basic principles of trigonometry and a simple formula, the trio aims to encapsulate the beauty of repetition while simultaneously embracing the familiarity of space.

On another train of thought, ‘Betta’ evokes the rippling, fragile wings of a Betta fish, which Owen translates into a flower formation that floats in mid air, in a simulated urban context. Each triptych has distinct themes, though are unified by Owen’s use of soft colours and attention to delicate detail.

The interest in Owens work is perhaps a broader indication of the rise of digital renderings in art and design, no longer looked down upon as ‘less than’ hand crafted works. The dreamy, conceptual qualities achievable with digital techniques are just as thought provoking and complex.