Artist

Biography

Riley Omar James, Jr. (b. 1986) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania studied basic drawing and painting at Pennsylvania State University and J. Sargeant Reynolds CC. Currently seeking entry into Virginia Commonwealth University (VCUarts) BA of Fine Arts in Communication Arts.

Riley James has always known that he was unique and his art was meant for a purpose greater than himself. Early on his parents knew that he wasn't your average child. He possessed a staggering level of energy and confidence, which was troublesome at times, but also an undying love to create and discover. So, his mother placed a pencil and paper in his hands with hopes of simply controlling his energy level. In return, God's gift to Riley was revealed, art.

As he grew older, so his skill as an artist grew. He became inspired by anything he felt emotionally attached to. Around the age of 7, he vividly remembers having a strong fascination for drawing what was on his heart. He found this method of expression to be humbling and often used the term 'love' to describe his work. What fascinated him most about drawing was his ability to stimulate others’ emotions through art. Heavily inspired by this, he spent most of his youth not only drawing subjects that he loves, but ones that others would emotionally connect with as well.

Riley James has gradually been teaching himself to master his gift as a medium of self express. The style in which he creates his pieces is known as Photo-realism. As an artist, his goal is to grow beyond Photo-realism into a level known as Hyper-realism. He continues to drive towards creating art that triggers a degree of emotional connection between his viewers and his subjects. He uses his works as a channel to spread the love of Christ, happiness and joy, targeting, first, his immediate community and ultimately touching the entire world.

Artist Statement