James Weikert
About the Artist
James Philip Weikert is an oil painter and architectural designer living and working in Bozeman, Montana. He was born in Florida in 1977, but he and his family soon moved to a small town in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This rural environment allowed him the opportunity to spend countless hours exploring the surrounding forests, rivers, and mountains.
James attended Norwich University in central Vermont where he earned a Bachelor of Architecture and Minor in Art. It was while at Norwich University that James first developed an interest in oil painting. Drawing on his background in architecture and love of the outdoors, he created a painting style that blended elements taken from both the built and natural environment. Most of his early work is a reflection of the New England landscapes he grew up in.
After spending several years living near the New Hampshire seacoast, James moved to Montana in the fall of 2003. His work was immediately influenced by the dramatic landscapes of the northern Rocky Mountains. This new inspiration compelled James to focus on improving and progressing his technique in the hopes of becoming a full-time artist. He recently completed the Montana Artrepreneur Program (MAP) to gain a better understanding of how to grow a sustainable art business.
In addition to a full-time job in architecture, James currently maintains a studio space in Bozeman, Montana. His work can be found in a growing number of galleries and shops throughout Montana and the region.
Artist Statement
My background in architecture gives me a unique perspective of the forms, colors, and patterns present within the places I visit. I incorporate these elements into my oil paintings to create bold interpretations of familiar landscapes.
I paint with oils thinned down as a wash over a smooth white surface. The bright white background shines through the paint which gives my work vibrancy and creates an effect similar to stained glass. The color is painted on first, then the black lines are added to areas where I want to reinforce depth, movement, and perspective. This technique contributes a strong graphic feeling to my paintings.