Diana Vase
Erte (Romain de Tirtoff) 1892 -1990
Hand Carved Encased Glass Vase
Height: 19 inches, Width: 5 inches
2004 From an early original design in Gouache
Edition: 300 numbered

James Talmadge

The artist's studio is filled with canvases in varying states of readiness. Evident is the artist's enthusiasm for a story well told.  Each canvas appears as both a piece of an intricate puzzle as well as a stepping stone to his next work of art.  A glimpse of Talmadge's life experience growing up in Southern California is documented on his canvas.  The artist captures the familiar, mixing a touch of romance in images such as the old women gossiping on a park bench remembering days gone by, kaleidoscopic colors rocketing through downtown freeways at rush hour, and glowing street lamps on a peaceful autumn eve illuminating a Santa Monica park at sunset.

From the time Talmadge was old enough to hold a crayon, he says he knew he wanted to be an artist. Now in his late 40s, everything he's done creatively and professionally since childhood has been directed toward that goal.

 

James Talmadge
"Having a Ball"
Limited Edition Lithograph
24 x 31 inches

James Talmadge
"Before the Show"
Limited Edition Lithograph
23 x 32 inches

At the age of 14, Talmadge was given his first one man exhibition at the Brand Art and Music Center in Southern California.  Shortly thereafter, he was awarded a scholarship to the Los Angeles based Art Center School of Design -- an award presented to one student per year.

Continuing his studies at California State University, Northridge, Talmadge met Professor Harold Schwarm. He credits Schwarm with having taught him "the importance of a brush stroke." The professor's guidance and style would lend a classic influence to Talmadge's truly contemporary experience, opening his eyes to the possibility of not merely capturing, but interpreting what he saw.