Biography...

     For over 25 years James Norman has been constantly exploring this 'thing' people call art.  Sure, he tries different styles and different media, but what really drives him is finding a different perspective.  In his own words, he calls himself a painter as opposed to an artist.  "Its up each person viewing my work to decide whether or not I'm an artist", he says.  

     To gain a different perspective, James will blend judicious amounts of composition, mood, and subject.  His numerous subject matter, and varied style keeps his work fresh... to him and those who have followed his career.  

     Being entirely self-taught, he would not recommend that same path to others.  However, the numerous awards, and collected pieces in Paris, Austria, Japan, and across the US, tell a tale of diligence and recognition of work ethic far outside his North Carolina roots.  

     James considers himself blessed to be able to do every day what he enjoys the most.  And it shows in his work.  The attention to detail, the subtle story within each piece, and his choice of presentation are hallmarks of Norman's talent.  

     Rather than list corporate patrons, selected honors and awards over the years, or personal milestones, James would rather list a few of the people he has been influenced by.  Perhaps if you enjoy James' work, you will investigate some of his favorite artists.  Andrew Wyeth, Winslow Homer, and Frank Benson probably head the list.  James also enjoys John Singer Sargent, Pierre Bonnard, Wolf Kahn, Richard Deibenkorn, William De Kooning, and Thomas Wilmer Dewing, to name a few.

--submitted June 2001, a longtime collector of Norman originals

 and reproductions