James received his first commission at the age of sixteen. Art training began at around the age of nine. Growing up in New Mexico exposed the artist to Native American cultures early on and it was this exposure that involved him in friendships with such artists as R.C. Gorman and other artisans at various pueblos.

James is presently involved in a serious of works with the Town of Palm Beach as the subject matter, the scenery is so resplendent and beautiful that the artist is making every effort to record what he sees with a genuine regard for detail and an awareness of its historical significance.