James Wappel ,born in Chicago in 1968, has been exhibiting his artwork for the last 10 years. After graduating from the American Academy of Art in 1989 (specializing in watercolor and computer graphics), James worked in a high-end computer graphics studio, until
opening his own fine art studio in 1992.
Over the last 5 years, James has won several Best of Show awards in wildlife, astronomical, and science fiction categories. He has sold his work in the U.S., Canada, Germany and England. At this time, he is exhibiting his art in over 40 shows a year.
In 1996, James began doing demonstrations and private instruction, teaching the use of watercolors, pastels, and low fire enamels. He became a member of the International Association of Astronomical Artists in 1997, publishing articles in the official newsletter PULSAR. He is also a member of the Berwyn Art League and the Des Plaines Art
League.
While his primary medium is watercolor, James also works in acrylics, oils, pastels, pencil, and low-fire enamels. The low fire enamels are painted on ceramic surfaces, as well as hand cut and slumped glass. Watercolors are painted on #115 hot press watercolor board and 140 lb. watercolor paper.