BIOGRAPHY

 



James Nelson discovered visual art at a very young age. His first portrait was an illustration of his mother. His eye for the unnoticed allowed him to capture every detail, from the creases of her smile to the roundness of her face. That same attention to detail was a source of uncertainty when presenting this portrait to his mother. He feared she might not happily accept the drawing due to the delicate nature. As he slowly presented her with the drawing, her response was a source of encouragement. She accepted the black and white drawing saying, “Draw everything you see son”.

Nelson often states that his inspiration comes from the notion that “Everything in earth, heaven, and the universe is an inspiration to create and to become its manifestation”.

 

James Nelson received many awards for his art beginning at the age of 12. This award was for his expertise in illustration, commercial, and visual art. James attended Westinghouse Vocational High School with a concentration in Commercial Art. In 1997, he was the winner of the All City State Awards Portfolio. Upon graduation, Nelson attended Illinois State University to study Graphic Design.  His work has been exhibited in the Museum of Contemporary Art, Gallery Guichard, NYCH Gallery, Galleyna19, and many other prominent and upcoming art galleries in the Chicagoland Area.

 

Nelson believes that “This natural ability to create comes from a higher existence, a higher power, the original creating force. If we are created in his image, we are also able to create works of art.”

 

 

 After years of freelancing in Graphic Design, he started a brand called Soulful Artistry. A creative company dedicated to providing creative services to consumers. His intent was to use his brand as a platform to engage other artists, creating a network of success. This was befitting as his respect for and admiration of those in the artistic community, culture, spirituality, and society are where he finds inspiration. The Renaissance Era and Expressionist movement influences his style and body of work. His work lives within the realm of Realism and Street/ Urban Arts. Nelson is intrigued by portraiture, which is evident in his work. His use of radiant and vibrant color schemes along with additional geometric elements give life to his creations. His latest works focus on the awareness of true value in humanity, spirituality, and the enrichment of African American culture. James Nelson is an artist with a profound respect for everything that exists, and his works are true statements of their coexistence.

 

NOTABLE EXHIBITIONS

 


AWARDS


PRESS