James Tsoodle believes that in any pursuit, one should strive for a sense of perfection.
As a child, James experimented with various mediums, including pen and ink drawings, pencil, watercolor, and pastels. Today, he primarily works with acrylic on canvas.
His artistic focus is on Native American Warriors from the Northern and Southern Plains. James believes that deep knowledge of the subject matter is essential for an artist to truly capture the essence of an image. He hopes that his dedication allows others to feel the passion and power not only in the imagery but also in the pigment, flow, and composition of each painting.
The inspiration behind his work began in his youth, shaped by the challenges he faced as a child. James was unable to read until the age of 14, due to what was later diagnosed as dyslexia. This struggle led him to discover his talent for painting, which became a source of pride and satisfaction for both him and those who appreciated his art. He has been largely self-taught from a very young age.
One of the defining features of James's current work is his ability to capture the depth of human life through the eyes of his subjects. He believes that the eyes tell the story and offer a glimpse into the soul. When he achieves this intensity, he knows the piece is complete.
James has drawn significant inspiration from the works of Charles Russell and George Catlin. He considers it a privilege to study their art, as they have been exemplary models for his own creative journey.
James has showcased his work in numerous venues, including The Heard Museum, The Pueblo Grande Museum, The Eiteljorg Museum, Colorado Indian Market, Tucson 4th Street Art Festival, Weems Art Festival, Rio Grande Arts Festival, Wheelwright Museum, and many other locations.
His faith and family hold great importance to him.