First Nation artist James Jacko was born and grew up in Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Canada. He started painting in 1977, also being inspired by First Nation artists Randy Trudeau and James Simon. His older brother asked him to finish a painting for him before he passed away for his brother’s girlfriend, which led to a lifelong career of art. James became a self-taught artist and he describes often in his paintings the creator and his creation in all its forms. Each painting develops and evolves as he paints through his visions. A big influence on his artwork are elders, his father, a muralist and wood carver and his mother who made crafts and outfits for traditional dancers which inspired him to paint in great detail.
