The Challis Arts Council presents James Andrews’, Western Trails at the MadDog Gallery at 632 E Main in Challis. This show opens on Friday, May 24^th at 6 p.m. and will remain at the gallery until July 5^th. All gallery openings are public events and free. For more information on events, call the Challis Arts Council 208-879-2745.

James Andrews Fine Art, Telling stories of the American West one painting at a time

Born in 1969, I began my upbringing on a cattle ranch in rural Idaho. Early on, I developed a love for nature and the outdoors. After high school, I embarked on a rodeo career, but my dreams were dashed due to injury.

Ironically, art wasn’t on my radar until I was in my late forties. Although my mother was an oil painter, I had shown no interest growing up. However, having seen my creativity in wood and stonework, a friend encouraged me to try my hand at drawing. Since picking up that pencil, I haven’t looked back.

As a self-educating artist, I paint and draw a variety of subjects in a representational style. My early development on the ranch inspires much of what I paint. I have a deep appreciation for the American cowboy and the history of the West. Therefore, I am driven to paint in the manner I do. I paint what would appeal to me were I looking to purchase a painting.

I’ve been blessed to have my work featured in Western Art Collector, American Art Collector, Art of the West, Guide Book of Art, and Treasure State Lifestyles magazines.  I’m a member of Oil Painters of America and the International Guild of Realism. My work has been exhibited in the International Guild of Realism salon, The Oldfield in Washington, as well as Footprints on the Trail and Best of the West during Western Art Week in Great Falls, Montana.

There are very few people doing what they love who can say if they never got paid again, they would continue to do it. I would. I am blessed to be able to do what I do.

J.A.