Retired Marine Now Makes Christ Inspired Art

HIGHLANDS TODAY
By Pamela Glinski

James Ward painting

FLORIDA - Artist James Ward (b. Ohio) creates from his "heart and soul" and has found his inspiration not only in his vast life experiences and in nature but also in his strong faith in God. Ward's vividly colorful paintings, sketches and pottery are on display at the Highlands Art League at 1989 Lakeview Drive in Sebring. A very lean, healthy 64-year-old, he still works out vigorously five days a week and teaches kickboxing. He explains, "It is a yen and yang kind of thing…. getting out aggression on the heavy bag with gloves and then (being) calm and collected for the rest of the day when I am painting." This devotedly religious man attends Independent Baptist Church in Sebring and says his work comes from "deep within" and is deeply influenced by his faith. Through all of his experiences in life and in art he has learned, "Life is too short to be that uptight… especially when you create." [link]