Even though I've had artistic tendencies for all my life, I have been painting seriously for about 20 years-most of my period of incarceration. I wouldn't say that I am self-taught because I've obtained a lot of instruction through art books and magazines. I started drawing and painting in prison out of boredom but it soon became a passion. I realized that this is my life. This is what I want to do. And I will only reach my potential as an artist after my release from here. "I am not inspired directly by any of my surroundings. There are no landscapes extending further than the walls and fences and, the general atmosphere inside and outside the living quarters is not conducive to painting. Therefore, I turn to my imagination for inspiration. "I've discovered that the imagination is a quality that can be developed and encouraged to grow. I read a lot of scientific, philosophical and spiritual literature, which also contributes to my painting subjects, often in sub-conscious ways. My imagination cannot be confined. I will not allow it to be. "I recognize in my works that, although I am not consciously inspired by my surroundings, my surroundings almost invariably creep into my works, especially in subtle ways. Every work expresses my pain and sorrow, or the pain and sorrow of the people in my life. Every painting reflects my dreams and regrets. Every painting is, in a way, a self- portrait. "Typically, when I start a painting, it is with a "seed idea". From there it grows; it may take on a life of its own. Often working intuitively, I sometimes feel as if I am merely a conduit for the expression of these ideas. An understanding of many of my works has to be sought AFTER the work is finished. I encourage other people to apply their own interpretation to my paintings. Their interpretation is just as valid, if not more so, than my own. People see the world through different lenses; through their own ideas and experiences. "My favorite painters of history are Vermeer; John Singer Sargent for his exquisite brushwork; Whistler for his grays; and Van Gogh for his passion.

Further information about the works of Anthony James may be obtained from:
2409 Bacon
Berkeley, MI 48072
(248) 541-8044