James Wood

Artist Statement:

My art relates to a journey, the journey of life. Each piece I create has a personal story which I am happy to share with the viewer. Stories of the past, present or future; of humans and animals; of archeological and palaeontological significance; of geological wonders and forces; and the bonds that tie us to all of these. I love being able to metaphorically link these subjects with each other. What I really wish is that you may relate it to your own life and being. I hope my art brings to mind good feelings, memories or experiences. I hope my art brings a smile, warm feeling or thought, a deeper connection, or maybe even the spark that ignites a new passion in your life. Whatever it may be, I hope my art becomes woven into the fabric of your own story and journey.

Biography:

Born in Kelowna BC in 1974, James is a third-generation Canadian artist. His father Karl E Wood, grandfather Robert E Wood and brother Robert E Wood were/are all professional artists whose painting careers spanned many decades. James has been creating art professionally for over 25 years and loves working in a variety of mediums. James took lessons from his brother Robert in working with oil and acrylic and is self-taught at carving stone and crystal sculptures. James has been fortunate to live in some of the most beautiful and inspiring places in western Canada including the Okanagan, Alberta’s foothills, Drumheller Valley and Vancouver Island where he has lived in the north, south and central areas. He currently resides in the Comox Valley.

James loves connecting deeply with the world around him through various outdoor pursuits including remote weeklong backpacking and kayaking adventures, swimming in the rivers and lakes, diving in the ocean and exploring ancient forest ecosystems. James also has a deep love for palaeontology. He has found many rare, scientifically important fossils ranging from dinosaurs to Isopods which he has donated to museums. He also uses his artistic abilities working with museums creating exhibits and preparing fossil specimens for study or display. In his art James captures the mood, light and flowing energy of the beautiful beings that he encounters on his journeys. James is well acquainted with and enjoys portraying magical moments from the people, prairies, mountains, forests and beaches to beneath the surface of the waves.