Printmaking and ceramic artistBen James was born in Oakland California, and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. A printmaker and ceramic artist for more than 20 years. During that time he has developed a unique style that reflects his life and the many people, things and places that are his inclusive family.
The etchings created by Ben present a scenario of people balanced within the spaces which they live. He creates sometimes a playful, dreamy and often sexual atmosphere, in which ones imagination can create a story of their own. In capturing that emotional significance, as well as the spiritual cohesiveness of the characters involved in theaters, rooms and spaces. He draws, and then imagines things that might be true because of his strong sense of community with the folks he’s put on paper. Ben an African-American, pulls a lot of powerful symbols and images from his community and the world. Ben has studied ceramics and worked with clay since the age of 14, spending many years working on the pottery wheel. Most of his work has been in the field of functional ceramic ware. In the past 5 years he has started integrating figures into his clay work, picking up on some of the same images used in his etchings. |
Education, Studios and Workshops
BA San Francisco State University (ceramics & glass)
The Potters Studio (Berkeley CA), three years
Taller de Ceramica (Veracruz MX) summer 2015
Laney College (Oakland CA ) 2 years ceramics
San Francisco City College, 2 years printmaking
Ceiba Grafica (Veracruz MX) 2 month residency
College of Marin (Kentfield CA) 1 year printmaking