Today we’d like to introduce you to James Phillips.
Thanks for sharing your story with us James. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
13 years ago while cutting down a tree, I carved a pelican with a chainsaw. friends and family and truthfully myself were a bit amazed. I became a little obsessed, carving anything I thought looked cool. I found a gallery (simply art gallery) in Galveston that agreed to show some work. while it was clear there was little chance of quitting the day job (equipment salesman), the elated feeling derived from someone buying a piece of one’s work was addictive. in 2008 hurricane like destroyed the gallery, but I kept making stuff. In 2009 the Rene Wiley Gallery(renewileyart.com) agreed to show my work, and I have had work on display for sale there to this day.
That same day, I was put in touch with Donna Liebbert who had it in her mind to save the 100 + year old live oak trees killed by Nike’s storm surge the previous year. She let me carve the first of what became many trees carved on the island. So many that it became a big deal. Tour buses segway tours, golf cart tours etc. In 2010 The television show, Texas Country Reporter did a flattering show on me and the Galveston tree project. I started getting requests from all over the state. By 2012 I left my proper job, and dedicate every day to making stuff. I do commission work, tree sculptures, and studio work that I sell at several galleries in Texas and California.
Has it been a smooth road?
Upon leaving a steady paycheck there were and are sleepless nights wondering if and when my next project will appear.
Pricing:
- onsite work 2000-5000
- studio work 750-2500
Contact Info:
- Website: inshoresculpture.com
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
