Tea, Tack and Chat with.... Samantha James

Here it is – Our first Tea, Tack and Chat with… Samantha James! (Albeit a virtual one this time!)

Samantha is a contemporary artist based in Gloucestershire, who enjoys hacking out with her daughter in the glorious countryside and rekindling her childhood love of nature and animals. Sam’s ethos is to create quirky, fresh contemporary art allowing her clients to possess original pieces that they are proud to display.  Working closely with her clients, bespoke art can be created with creativity knowing no boundaries. Sam loves to push the boundaries, recently digitally altering some of her paintings, adding novelty humour for printed cards, posters and other household items.

Grab a cuppa and read on to get to know Sam a bit better!

When did you first realise that you had a talent for drawing and painting animals?

I have always been passionate about animals and can remember spending hours when in Primary School, drawing horses.

If you could draw or paint any horse, which one would you choose?

I have no preference to breed of horse, however I do like to draw and paint horses tack-less, as I believe a bridle and saddle distract from the horses’ anatomy and beauty. I also love manes that are natural- such a wonderful thing to capture in paint a horse’s flowing mane and tail.

Do you remember your first paying commission?

I certainly do, and I only heard from the client recently as she moved. She told me the painting I did for her was the last thing she took from the house and the first thing she unpacked.

Who do you admire the most and why?

My Father is my biggest inspiration and Guru. He is the person I turn to for advice and encouragement as an incredibly diverse and accomplished artist. He also has a passion for equine work, and I have a life size example of one of his paintings in my home.

What is your happiest recent memory?

Such an interesting question- I am a creature of simple pleasures. My most recent memory which flooded me with a feeling of good will, was seeing my mare curled up on the ground in the sun. I was able to approach her and kneel down by her head. This is something I have only experienced a couple of times as on the rare occasion you see her lying down, she immediately jumps up when she sees you. I was equally thrilled that my daughter captured it on camera, and I intend to paint it.

When you are painting, do you listen to any music? Or is everything very quiet and peaceful?

I use my painting as a form of meditation, so my studio is quiet when possible. That said I tend to paint in a variety of places, including the garden, if it is sunny.

If you had a dinner party and could invite any 3 people past or present, who would they be?

I could spend hours thinking about this question and to have to name only three people is extremely challenging. I really would like to meet David Attenborough because he is a legend and would have so many incredible adventures to share, I truly believe he is one of Earths angels. To add a creative spin, with a highly successful career as an artist that spanned eight decades, Louise Bourgeois, who today is recognized as one of the best and most influential female artists of modern and contemporary art. Best recognized for her installations and sculptures, her work was influenced by her role as a woman in modern society. Finally, to lighten the mood and to add some humour, I would like to add Ricky Gervais to the guest list. Laughter is one of the greatest gifts –I am sure Ricky would get the balance just right.

Do you have a new commission that you are looking forward to?

Yes, I am about to start a new commission, and it is a person- such a refreshing challenge from my animal work. During the first lockdown I received more enquiries than ever before- many of which resulted in commissions.

What music do you like to listen to?

I do not tend to listen to music as my husband and teenage children monopolise Spotify. If I play music it has to be loud and usually results in dancing!

What is your biggest achievement or proudest moment?

I would have to say my first solo exhibition, such a wonderful experience and opportunity to show case my work and meet so many new people.

You can see more of Samantha’s beautiful artwork on her website: www.samjamesart.com or Facebook page: @SamJamesArtist