Born in Japan, raised and living in and around Welland almost all his life, James is a tattoo and fine artist. James has been a screen printer for many years also, and spends much time drawing and painting, writing poetry, and is also a lover of local history.

 

Recently, James decided to create his own private art studio for all his creative projects in Welland, and is encouraging more “local art on local walls” by offering his own space for a group of local independent artists he has has organized, named The Black Lantern Experience (blxtv.ca on the internet), to encourage and exhibit the work of independent artists working in the Welland area in an environment free of censorship.

 

James is involved in the community, having been a former Welland Historical Society president, organized the Welland Zombie Walk, participating with the Sub-committee for Public Art under the Welland Arts & Culture Advisory Committee, and also is currently involved with the Quest for Welland's Identity forum, as well as volunteer work for the Stay Positive organization. For more info on James, please refer to his website at jamestakeo.com