Overcoming a Rock Climbing Accident to Get Back to Art: The Inspiring Story of James Bonner

Growing up in the land of the Razorbacks, it is perhaps not surprising that James Bonner is a former football player and sports enthusiast. More intriguing is the longstanding attraction that this Little Rock, Arkansas native has felt toward Maine art and artists. This first manifested as an attraction to the work of the Wyeth family. Drawn to Andrew Wyeth in particular, James began a decades-long love affair with Maine, traveling frequently to the state’s Mid-coast region to immerse himself in the environment that has inspired countless creative spirits. James has become known for his attention to detail, using a painstaking multi-layered process to create simplified yet evocative Maine scenes. We explore the inexplicable allure of our beloved Pine Tree State with James Bonner on today’s episode of Radio Maine.

Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube, so you never miss an episode.

This artist is represented by the Portland Art Gallery of Maine. Click here to view their art.