Jim grew up in New York, and started wood carving early on. He sold his first piece at age five. Ever since then he has been developing his artistic talents. At age seven, Jim had his first experience with SCUBA. His passion for marine life developed in his teen years, and he continued that passion into college were he studied marine biology at Southampton College and at S.U.N.Y. Oswego (B.A. degree). With continued studies in Jamaica, W.I., Bermuda, and Hawaii, Jim received his M.S. degree from Loyola U. of Chicago. Moving to Florida, he completed his doctoral work at F.S.U. Now a retired marine biologist, Jim creates art full time.
He initially sculpts in exotic hardwoods before casting his works in bronze.
Jim first photographs his subject, then sketches it, then collects the appropriate wood. He then cuts, carves, and finishes the wood. After the carving is complete, he then makes a rubber mold of it and casts it in wax. The wax is reworked, customized and invested in a ceramic shell. The wax is burned out in an oven and the mold is filled with molten bronze. Once cooled, the mold is chipped away revealing the raw bronze casting, which is ground, sanded, sandblasted, and finished with a patina (colored by acids). The entire process takes 3-6 months. Jim has captured the beauty and grace of his ocean friends in his unique style. Most of his work is one-of-a-kind, attracting collectors and investors.
Jim's work has been shown in numerous art shows, galleries, museums and institutions, and has won him numerous awards and recognition around the country, including commissioned works from corporate and private collectors. Jim has received grants from various foundations to continue his work. With studios in Florida and New York, Jim tours the east coast promoting his art.
Jim's knowledge of his subjects is reflected in his art work.
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