Artist Statement  I paint and draw positive/negative images in a realistic/abstract format, making the realistic image strong, yet mostly empty, while the negative background is rendered in great texture, emphasizing color and composition. The positive and negative forces are reversed with strong emphasis on the realistic, natural image against the more detailed, textured background. Artist Biography  I graduated from high school in 1964 and moved to Minneapolis to enroll in the Minneapolis School of Art. Afterwards, I worked as a designer and painter in Dayton’s Department Store and the Dudley Riggs Brave New Workshop, where I designed posters, brochures, and programs. Later, I painted murals for several businesses on their storefronts and started painting murals in homes. In 1987, my partner and I formed Painted Images, Inc. We designed and marketed wearable art, textiles, paintings, and murals. I also sold hand-painted clothing in shops in DC and throughout the country. It was through this market that several clients in Washington, DC became acquainted with my work. Subsequently, I painted murals in their homes. When we moved to Harpers Ferry, WV in 1990, I joined local arts organizations. I also accepted commissions for murals, paintings, drawings, and wearable art, and participated in regional, national and international juried art exhibitions. My work has been featured in local newspapers, magazines and the Washington Post on-line. Recent drawings and paintings are available for purchase. Please contact us for dimensions and prices.Thank you for visiting our web site. James Shumate, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425 304-535-2235, shumatejames@comcast.net