I find satisfaction in extracting something of the essence of the subject, letting the simplicity of that make a statement.
Columbus College of Art and Design, BFA, 1976
A BFA graduate of Columbus College of Art and Design, James Nelson Lewis resides on a wooded hilltop in the Arkansas Ozark foothills. Strong family ties in Florida contribute to his range of subject matter and love for seascape and tropical subjects.
James has years of experience as an illustrator and art director. His approach to painting has been influenced by this work, as well as from years of painting and instructing watercolor. As a result, his paintings are imbued with a sense of order balanced by spontaneity and energetic brushwork. His work comes across as direct and intuitive. He is inspired, not primarily to represent, but to respond creatively, and to infuse his work with a sense of being and a delight in seeing.
Painting with oils, James enjoys using a combination of palette knife and brush work. He strives to create the right combination of values, edges and colors. He works to maintain accuracy while emphasizing certain areas with a casual spontaneous stroke or texture as he might with watercolor.
James Nelson Lewis’ softly focused portrayals of landscapes and figures communicates the spirit of his subjects while staying true to an impressionistic view. A subdued palette of pastel hues complements the serene nature of his scenes, while broad and textured brushwork finish the compositions with depth and form. The expressed vision imparts to the viewer the essence of quiet contentment.
