James Haddock Works

James Haddock

 

BACKGROUND 

James Haddock graduated from Northeastern Oklahoma State University, and obtained his Masters degree in Counseling from the University of North Texas. James is a retired Texas public school counselor and a private therapist. 

After retirement, James began his study of art. He studied with local artists Martha Howell, Sleepy Read, and Mary Parvin. He also studied with Jan Sitts of Sedona, Arizona, and Mary Ann Beckwith of Michigan.

 

MEDIUM AND TECHNIQUE

My art is mixed media since I draw with oil pens and use acrylic paint.  I use some of the techniques and materials I used in my experimental art and through trial and error have developed a way of using acrylic paint on acrylic (Plexiglas) which results in brilliant colors and pleases me immensely. I have developed art skills by being active in various art groups around the DFW area, listening to art demonstrations, taking workshops by knowledgeable artists, in short, learning from other artists.

 

INSPIRATION

“After a 44-year career in education as a teacher and counselor, I seemed to just unleash a passion for art.  I had learned much from observing nature while living on and improving a five-acre wooded lot.  So, it was natural that the textures and colors of nature would appear in my paintings. The spring and fall colors of North Texas can be seen in my paintings.My last position in education was as a counselor with kindergarten children.  I used play and art in working with this age group.  They taught me a valuable lesson, and that is we adults should play.  That is exactly what art is for me - play.”

 

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

James is a signature member of the watercolor society of Fort Worth. He has been awarded a best of show, a first place in his division and a merit award by Arlington Visual Arts Association, first places by DeSoto Art League, and first place by Art Splash on the square Graham, the Charles Inge award Rio Brazos Art Exhibit Granbury, and Artist of the year by his local art group in Cleburne.