Jim Horsley

When strolling through art galleries years before he picked up a paintbrush, Jim would experience a relentless stirring to take up painting. Drawing has been a life-long hobby, and after some initial workshop training, he felt certain that he’d found a new passion. Winston Churchill stated, "To be plunged into the middle of a new and intense form of interest and action with paint and palettes and canvases, is an astonishing and enriching experience.” And Jim is now finding that to be absolutely true.

Living in the cowboy country of Central Oregon, Jim’s passion for learning, determination, and unwillingness to accept anything less than his very best are the same traits that were key to his success as a Navy combat and Blue Angel demonstration pilot. The focus, practice, and dedication so vital in aviation have guided him through the constant challenges of creating meaningful art.

Jim says, “Immersing myself in the beauty and complexity of life through oil painting is teaching me to see at a much deeper level, engaging my heart and mind in portraying the creative essence of the ‘story’ to the viewer. I call it ‘painting with a purpose.’ The intricate balance of artistic technique and interesting composition of striking images are key aspects of the distinct representational style in my paintings of the American West.”

In the past few years Jim developed a growing following through commissioned paintings and sales to collectors throughout the western states. Kelly’s Gallery in Joseph currently represents him. His work has been juried into a variety of regional art shows, receiving merit and people’s choice awards.

You can learn more about Jim and his art by visiting his website, or his Facebook page, or his Instagram page.

His studio is located at:
942 E Timber Pine Dr.,   Sisters, Oregon 97759