Jim Barker

My art career began after college when I became a sculptor for the plastics industry. This work involved building models for various companies including Walt Disney Corporation, Schultz (Peanuts figures), action figures for Lucas Films (Star Wars) and other companies in this field.  I was also involve with designing and sculpting models of domestic and wild animals for commercial reproduction.  Event though I have been removed from that a business for the past eight years, it is always as pleasure to still see my work on the shelves of various retail stores.

I spent my youth living in rural Missouri farm country surrounded by timberlands , rivers and lakes,  Hunting, fishing and camping were taken for granted and became a way of life rather than a weekend adventure.  At an early age, images and moods of the land began translating into pencil and charcoal drawings.  Even today, images from those days still wander through my minds.

Since I have been working in fine art full time, I have felt significant growth and gratifications with painting and sculpting.  Each day is filled with anticipation of the next sculpture or painting.

My first degree in art came from the land and remains my most precious learning experience.