James Wright, a self taught photo realist, started painting in high school.  

He painted the sports figures that he watched on television, trying to capture the movement, agility and strength that was shown in the game.  He quickly realized that his artwork was more portrait in nature and that he had the ability to gain almost photo quality work by using acrylics. 

In many paintings James uses  collage to illustrate the many facets of an athlete's career.

Over time, James' artwork has been noticed.  He has been reviewed in local newspapers and has had his work recognized by the owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates and the official photographer of the Pittsburgh Steelers.  James has met many of the sports figures that he has painted and several have signed their portraits. 

While James' first love is sports he has expanded his vision to encompass all dimensions of portraiture.  James is actively working on fulfilling his dream of becoming a fulltime artist.