"Treasured"

For The Love Of Art And "Treasured"

This watercolor painting, aptly named "Treasured," represents a profound connection that transcends simply painting a watercolor. For Jim, the creation of this piece marked a pivotal moment in his artistic journey. It was through "Treasured" and another equally important piece, "Daydream Believer," that he took his first significant step toward becoming a member of the National Watercolor Society—a milestone that would help shape his future.

But the significance of "Treasured" goes even deeper. When Jim sought to have this painting grace the cover of his book "Transparent Watercolor Wheel," published by Watson-Guptill, he encountered resistance. They doubted the marketability of an old man carrying flowers, believing it would put off potential readers. Undeterred, Jim declared, "I understand your concern, but I see this differently, we’ll publish the book with your competition." His passion and conviction led to the book being published with Watson-Guptill, proving that the heart of art lies in its authenticity and the stories it tells.

In the painting, we see a kind gentleman from San Miguel de Allende, embodying warmth and gentleness as he pauses in the central jardin—a place filled with rich culture, laughter, and beauty. This figure resonates with Jim, perhaps due to the cherished memories of his maternal grandfather, a tall, gentle Scot who served as his guiding light. The spirit and kindness of his grandfather lingers in Jim’s art, infusing the painting with a legacy of love and connection. The spirit of his grandfather lives on through every brushstroke.