Meet James Lockridge, a local artist who is passionate about crafting artisan objects that bring joy and beauty to our daily lives. James describes his work as an expression of his love for old-world technique in the disciplines of sculpture, painting, gilding, glass and metal work.  His pieces speak to his admiration of classic scale quality materials, craftsmanship and the principles of beauty found in nature. He says his love of natal beauty, peaceful way of life, and sense of community drew him to the Allegheny mountains of West Virginia.

“James’ pieces have been placed in some of the most beautiful homes around the world.”

James’ work has been published and placed both nationally and worldwide. He has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Veranda, Interiors, Western Interiors, Traditional Home, Southern Accents, and New England Home to name a few. Internationally, he’s been featured in Wohn Design Germany, House and Garden Britain, and the Financial Times. His pieces have been placed in some of the most beautiful homes around the world. Learn more about James with our Q&A:

Describe your art.

I love the way combining techniques and beautiful materials offer a lasting and unique medium in which to express a vision.  Classical scale as defined by Fibonacci standard and the beauty observed in nature are always in my mind.

“Recently I have been drawn to the ancient art of bonsai.”

What inspired you to specialize in Bonsai art?

Bonsai is one of my passions along with furniture design.

Recently I have been drawn to the ancient art of bonsai. The traditional intent of bonsai is a carefully choreographed effort to create proportion and harmony. The most common symbolisms are balance, simplicity, harmony, and age. These symbols are evident not just in bonsai but also in real life.   I believe nature is the ultimate beauty and its careful study can teach an artisan the best principles and practices when creating with our own imagination and hands. I love to be out in nature on a hike in this beautiful state.  On occasion, I will discover a rock that inspires me and becomes the foundation for one of my bonsai sculptures.  The tree form I fashion to the rock is a direct response its form.

“I like using natural elements because I feel they are timeless.”

How do you describe your palette?

Natural elements.  Brass, Bronze, steel, patinas, semi-precious stones, and leafing ( gold, silver, palladium act.) I like using natural elements because I feel they are timeless.

What’s your greatest accomplishment?

My two children.

What obstacles do you need to overcome to find your creative space/muse?

Finding the balance between unavoidable business requirements and nurturing a sense of wellbeing that makes a space for untethered creation.

How do you find your inspiration?

In beautiful elements conceived by man and those revealed in nature.

What advice do you have for other artists?

Make peace with your strengths and weaknesses.

What is your favorite piece(s) you’ve made and why?

Faux bois table. I created a large entry table alongside some amazing European craftsmen.  A hand-carved tree form and leaves in wood with forged iron acorns gilt in silver leaf.  A delicate hand-carved moth in gold gild can be discovered upon closer inspection. The faux bois tree sets atop a beautiful marble base and supports a large marble top.  Sent pics.

You can find James’ art at The Golden Rabbit at 951 Washington St W. in Downtown Lewisburg and at The Greenbrier Lifestyle Shop at The Greenbrier Resort. To contact James, email him at info@jlartizanstudio.com and follow him on Instagram @jlartizanstudio

– Hashtag Lewisburg City Paper. #131. May 2021.