artist • carpenter • designer

I operate as an independent craftsperson. Currently, I reside in Oakland, California, where I live and work out of my converted warehouse space. I attended the Art Academy of Cincinnati, studying painting and drawing. Throughout my life I worked and trained with many skilled craftspeople and artists. By working in the scenery business I was able to see art fabricated efficiently and exactly. This opened a world of possibilities for me as an artist. Seeing and working on large scale projects quickly interested me. By observing the fabrication process, and understanding efficiency, and attention to detail, i was able now to make nearly anything it seemed.

    Lately I have been painting a new body of artwork, using acrylics and mixed media on thick sheets of paper. My most recent carpentry and design project was the Bonaham Ranch in Los Gatos, California. For this project I designed and fabricated 30 doors, created an upstairs suite, and unified the home’s interior style through wall finishes, trim, custom furniture and flooring. You can see photos of the project in my design and carpentry section.

    As an independent artist, i am willing to work on ,or with nearly anyone. I am hoping that through this site i will be able to keep my body of work available to everyone, even when its not hanging in a gallery. i am available to design and render any space or thing. This could range from turning a car inside out, creating a larger than life sculpture to creating a building, or the buildings interior. Starting each project the same way, by opening my sketch book and making thumbnail designs. I am open to all possibilities styles and people.

*click here to see more of james’ installation at mississippi may