News

01 October 2025 Last updated at 12:07

James McQueen

Castle Fine Art Nottingham are excited to announce the latest release from elusive artist James McQueen, available now. As witty and daring as ever, McQueen takes inspiration from a quote that has guided both his career and personal life: "If I'd observed all the rules, I'd never have got anywhere." Originally attributed to Marilyn Monroe, the phrase becomes the heart of this new work, stamped irreverently across the rulebook of conformity and urging us to push boundaries in pursuit of our dreams.

Beneath the bold typography and vivid red paint lie intimate fragments: scribbled shopping lists, phone numbers, and messages to loved ones, echoing the oddly personal notes found in well-worn books. These details invite viewers to look closer, uncovering glimpses of humour, honesty, and humanity within the chaos.

To leave his mark, McQueen coated his boots in paint and walked across the almost finished artwork, imprinting his footprint both literally and metaphorically. Combined with striking hand-lettering and splashes of colour, the result is provocative, graphic, and deeply personal.

We look forward to welcoming you to Castle Fine Art, Nottingham, where you can be among the first to experience James McQueen's latest originals and limited editions, available now. Find us at 8-14 The Exchange.

If I'd Observed All The Rules I'd Never Have Got Anywhere is available in four versions -

Limited Edition £1,950

3 x Unique Versions £6,950 each

See the collection here   

CFA McQueen1
CFA McQueen2