I have been artistic since my earliest recollections and it has manifested itself in many ways - whether as an Associate Food Editor at Seventeen Magazine or as an avid gardener with plantings known throughout my community. I can't resist the beauty of nature and when I started painting I was drawn to landscapes and skyscapes'. However, my long association with horticulture, including many courses at NY Botanical Gardens and years of perfecting my garden, has led me to my current fascination with nature's construction of the flower blossom.

Often I use a macro lens on my camera to capture a bloom from my garden at its optimum beauty and then paint from my photo studies. A single bloom can be enveloping, seductive, sensuous and above all, remarkable in its construction. The floral palette is endless and often challenging to capture. The subject matter seems to be in infinite supply and I'm excited with my efforts to capture the beauty and drama that I see.

This series represents a seminal moment for James in his artistic endeavors. Delivering an entire body of work with a thematic component is just the beginning of the journey that James has now embarked on. His inner voice has a direction and focus that will allow us to share in the remarkable journey to come.